Maricel began singing in public at a very young age and started taking formal voice lessons at the age of nine from Mercilyn Andalis. Among those who encouraged her to pursue a musical career was her high school principal, Juanito Afenir, III, also an accomplished baritone. Maricel's victory at the 1993 National Music Competition for Young Artists (NMCYA) played a very vital role in steering her towards a college degree in music at the Philippine Women's University System College of Music. There she continued more intensive training under the tutelage of Susie Abadilla, and also studied piano under Harold Galang. In 1999 she received her diploma in Music Teaching.

Maricel's sweet, yet powerful tone has been characterized as "a cross between Charlotte Church and Beverly Sills" which describes her wide range of expression and style. Her premiere duo performance last year with Sal Malaki of Los Angeles Master Chorale fame in San Diego received a standing ovation.

Marical has just released her first CD album entitled Eternal Life featuring gospel and sacred favorites. It will be available at Adventist Book Centers as well as on the internet.

Maricel has toured the U.S. and Canada since 1997, performing in major cities including Chicago, New Jersey, New York, San Diego and San Francisco. She has also performed abroad and at one time was featured on an internationally syndicated television broadcast via satellite. She teaches piano and voice in the Bay Area and is working towards her Bachelor's Degree in Music. She is the youngest daughter of very proud parents, Mr. and Mrs. Catalino Tactay, Jr.