Melody Hager Visits Section 36!

Photo by Donald Latham

Section 36 has another visitor! Melody Hager is passionate about music therapy, a talented singer, and the current Miss Statesville. I was excited that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more.
 
So, let's see what happens when Melody Hager visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Statesville crown? 

Directly after winning/competing, I always make a pit stop to Cook Out. It's a southern fast food chain and you can get everything imaginable there. I'm usually running on adrenaline during the day, so when I finish the night, I need something fast and preferably greasy! :) The next day after winning Miss Statesville, I visited the local assisted living center that housed my grandfather for years. I thanked them for what they do and payed homage to the man that has inspired me! 

What’s the biggest thing you learned about yourself at the Miss Statesville competition? 

I am resilient. In 2018, I had a panic attack on stage while competing for another title. I was so bogged down and burnt out and I didn't listen to my body or my brain. I decided that I needed a comeback, but I needed to be FULLY Melody when I returned. So I reconnected with myself, and lo and behold, I won!

Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss Statesville? 

My biggest goal is to continue my advocacy work through my

Photo by Donald Latham

SII Music is Medicine: Music Therapy Matters. Ideally, through my advocacy of the practice and the therapists, I'd like to secure music therapy recognition through licensure in our state. That would require legislation, but would better protect clients and music therapists. It's already in the works! :)

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Music is Medicine: Music Therapy Matters”? 

I was inspired by my grandfather, PaLuke. He had a stroke after my grandmother passed in 2012. I come from a deeply musical family, so we played old tunes that we hoped would resonate with him. Amazingly, we watched as his mood, speech, and memory improved while interacting with the music. I delved into research and discovered music therapy! Since then, I've felt a deep love for the practice and the people who make it possible. 

As a talented singer, how do you select the perfect competition song? 

Photo by Donald Latham

First and foremost, it needs to mean something to me. Even the best entertainers can fall flat if the song has no connection to them. I always select pieces that have sentimental value. After that, I choose songs that showcase my range and power. I have a strong belt and want to showcase my years of experience. I also LOVE to bring some Rock 'n Roll to a stage! 

You currently work as a school counselor. What do you like about that field? 

Working in Learning Support at my current school is so rewarding. During such a hectic year due to COVID-19, the kids needed stability and trusted adults. I'm so honored to be that for so many of my students. I love human connection, and have a particular passion for advocating for children. Through this job, I've gotten to know them as people and helped them as they develop into adults. I may or may not have cried when my seniors said goodbye!! 

If you could be a Disney character for a week, who would you choose? Why? 

My first job was actually dressing up as Disney princesses for parties and charitable events! I'd have to say Elsa. For one, having ice powers would be a great conversation starter. But knowing the influence she has on young girls would give me the opportunity to promote independence and following your dreams. Elsa and the Frozen franchise was (and continues to be) a cultural phenomenon, and would be one I could use to help nurture the next generation of women leaders.

If you had an extra ticket to a Charlotte Knights baseball game, who would you take with you? Why? 

Photo by Donald Latham

My dad! I don't I've ever been to a baseball game with him before. Neither of us know much about the sport, so I can only imagine the laughs we'd have trying to figure out what's going on. Cheer when our section cheers! 

You recently had the opportunity to sing the national anthem before a Charlotte Knights game. What was that experience like? 

Singing the anthem is always nerve wracking. It's the one song you can't mess up. As a Charlotte native, I understand how important Knights games are to our local community and knew I had to bring my A game. Even with my years of experience as a performer, I still get nervous before singing the Anthem! It went off without a hitch though, thankfully. The staff at the ballpark were so hospitable and welcoming. It was an honor. 

---

I can imagine that would be stressful!

As always, I want to thank Melody for visiting with us, and for sending along the fantastic pictures to go with the interview.

I encourage you to follow Melody on her Instagram account. It's a great way to keep track of everything she has going on!

I also definitely want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss North Carolina title. It would be wonderful to have the first Section 36 visitor wear that crown!
 
Thanks again Melody, and good luck!