Hello, I have been playing the flute since 4th grade in the beginning band. I’m in 9th grade and now I’m in the highest band, Wind Ensemble. I am planning on volunteering through performing in health care centers. I also hope to audition for CMEA Allstate next year. My private teacher suggested that I audition for an orchestra, CYS (California youth symphony). Do you think it is beneficial and worth my time to join another orchestra? Does it matter in college applications? Thanks for your time.
It can be, depending upon where you are applying. Regional orchestras are usually at a much higher level than school orchestras. You might find it challenging and enjoyable. You also might get a boost, admissions-wise, to certain schools, and scholarship money related to playing in their symphony.
Do you want to pursue other orchestras? Go for it. Colleges like to see students doing what interests them. If flute and playing music are your thing, doing those things to a high level is great. Just be sure that grades don’t suffer as a result. ECs are important but not as important as grades.
For my daughter it definitely made a difference that she was an accomplished flutist even though she was not going to be a music major. It earned her a full-ride to one school and for the school she ultimately attended - she requested her admissions file and it was noted that her music ability was the “thing” that attracted them. It is a top ten school so she had to have the grades and the scores but that was what distinguished her. Good luck!
Thank you so much everyone! The advices helped me a lot. I think I plan on at least auditioning for an outside orchestra!
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