Lily Cagle
Hometown: Mount Pleasant, NC
Degree: BA in Music Performance and a minor in English
Graduation Year: 2025
How did you become interested in music?
I got into music by wanting to do something different from my family and always having a love for it. When I started band, it made me realize that I had a place to be myself and to grow. Through various experiences that band has given me, I decided that I wanted to do music past high school. Deciding to continue my music studies beyond high school has opened many doors and experiences that I would not have had otherwise, so I am grateful for that.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I hope to be a professor or researcher in the field of musicology — the study of music — with a concentration in ethnomusicology — the study of music culture. I also have a hope to teach in a public school, whether that be English or music.
What is your favorite thing about the Department of Music?
I enjoy how there are many interdisciplinary opportunities for us. Even within the music department, we have opportunities to work with instrumentalists and vocalists that we wouldn’t get to on a normal basis. Within the College of Arts + Architecture, there have been many performances with both the department of dance and music, and a few classes that have the basis of collaboration!
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
I volunteered at Newell Elementary School in the music classroom for about a semester. I got this opportunity through an honors class that I took and learned a lot! I was able to connect with the teacher, school, kids, and was able to share my love of music to the next generation. It was really rewarding helping out in the classroom as well as for their talent show. Other than that I’ve been a part of the marching band for 3 years — one of which I was the drum major — and I have volunteered at the Jamil Niner Student Pantry. All of these endeavors have given me a wide range of perspectives and opportunities.
What is one thing you learned from the Arts + Architecture Honors Program?
I have gained a well rounded understanding of what it means to work with other colleagues. During my seminar class, I got to learn a bit about everyone and create some valuable connections. I also took a collaboration class for one of my seminars and was able to gain experience of working with colleagues from other disciplines.
Can you talk about your experience as a scholarship student?
The benefit I have gained from receiving departmental scholarships is that I can afford to continue studying so that I can be successful in the profession that I want to go into.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy a good Bible study and coffee, as well as reading and writing! I’ve recently gotten into poetry and it has enlightened me on how the arts and literature can connect.