<p>I am first chair oboist in numerous ensembles. In the ones with orchestra, that also means I am the leader for the entire woodwind section.</p>
<p>Would this be equivalent in leadership to being a club president or officer?</p>
<p>I also have the same question…</p>
<p>Probably not, but I think artistic talent is a pretty important talent and a good thing to have.</p>
<p>Hmm, it’s just that with the exception of one or two clubs at our school, being in a leadership role a) is the sterotypical high school popularity contest and b) requires basically no work. The people who head things like CSF and NHS basically get away with murder, and even they acknowledge this.</p>
<p>My roles require actual leadership and ability. I don’t think it’s fair that people can just get titles that just look great on paper, while others who spend their time on something that requires real initiative and talent get left behind.</p>
<p>Well, being in a band counts as an extracurricular activity, so I don’t see why being first chair wouldn’t count as a leadership position.</p>
<p>To those who understand it, I think being first chair will be considered a meaningful accomplishment. My kids are musicians and I know how important it’s been to them. However, for those outside those circles, it usually takes a little explaining. If you take the time to develop it in your applications I think schools will view it quite favorably, even though they may see it more as a testament of your musical talent versus leadership ability.</p>