Eli Mathew

Degree: BM Trumpet Performance
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Mooresville, NC

How did you first get interested in music?
I fell in love with music at around 12 years old when I was in a middle school band. I saw trumpet as a challenge so I immediately set out to be the best. I listened to tons of jazz albums and fell in love with jazz due to its wide variety of colors and harmony. Later in high school, I discovered the beauty of romantic classical, which I have since dedicated myself to. I love listening to this type of music because when I really get focused into it, all the other thoughts and worries in my brain just disappear.

What kind of career do you hope to have?
I hope to be playing trumpet in a major orchestra or military band, writing music for band/brass, and also working within the marching arts in high schools and drum corps.

What is your favorite thing about the Department of Music?
My favorite thing about the music department at UNC Charlotte is the sense of community. Due to our size, everyone knows everyone which means you get really close to people and you create bonds and friendships that are really closely knit.

Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
An organization local to Charlotte that I am a part of is a drum corps called Carolina Crown. We put together a 15 minute show over the entire summer and compete with other corps over the country and represent Charlotte with our logo and name, Crown.

When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, cooking, working out, mountain biking, and watching classic films.