What the year meant to UNC’s student musicians

It’s been a successful year for music at the University. As the year comes to a close, student musicians gave thanks for their experiences and artistic endeavors. 

With various performances held by ensembles within the music department and student-led organizations, UNC’s student musicians cherish their accomplishments this year; some even improved upon their talents without majoring in music. 

Malcolm Douglas, a sophomore studying economics and statistics, plays the mandolin, electric guitar and bass guitar. He shared his experience performing with the Carolina Bluegrass Band, one of UNC’s ensembles.

“It's a great opportunity to play with other people,” he said. “Which I think as a musician is the best way to grow. And you know, learning from instructors who are experts in specific genres, you pick up a lot about stylistic influences and things that you should be doing.” 

Directed by Tatiana Hargreaves, the band hosted their fall showcase on Nov. 23 in the Moeser Auditorium, displaying the work they put into their skills, Douglas said. 

Sophomore biology and music student, Swathi Jayakumar, plays in the piano ensemble at UNC and has been teaching the instrument for seven years. 

In April, Jayakumar performed with the Kenan Theater Company for their production “Something Rotten,” along with the UNC Pauper Players production “Assassins” in October. She shined light on her experience and how great it felt to play piano for the vocalists starring in these productions.

“I enjoy the plays,” she said. ”But some of these vocalists you would see that I accompany, they're a real delight to play with. They're so talented, and that's why I enjoy those musicals as well.”

For these musicians, playing music and attending college comes with difficulties, but they say they use their craft to decompress while juggling academia.

As a music major, Jayakumar’s strategy for balance is to rotate between assignments and music practice.

“I found it's honestly relaxing, because obviously it can be really tough on the brain,” she said. “And it's tough to study for extended periods of time at once. But when I keep music as a breather in between those study periods, it becomes a lot easier.”

Natalie Druffner, a viola ensemble member and junior double-majoring in music and chemistry shared how essential it has been to have a system of support through her studies.

“Having mentors and friends in both departments who understand the struggle is really great, because the support is there when I need it,” she said.

For non-music majors, the music community thrived. Douglas mentioned how being a Carolina Bluegrass member took a lot of stress off from school.

“After a long week of tests or classes, it's a great way to find balance in this big University when you're not an actual music student,” he said.

Even with already established talents and connections with other students, they share a common desire to be better than they are in the present, to grow in their capabilities with music and be instrumental with their mindset, no pun intended. 

Moving forward, these three and other student musicians will make the most of what 2025 has in store for them. 

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