<p>Hi, I'm a rising senior interested in Williams and I have a couple of questions about the Berkshire Symphony. Is it the only orchestral group at Williams? And how difficult would it be for a violinist to make it in? Also, are there any other instrumental music groups (i.e. chamber, string quartets) offered? Thanks!</p>
<p>I can’t answer your question about getting a place in the Berkshire Symphony, but he other orchestral group is the Student Symphony.
This is an overview:
<a href=“Ensembles – Music”>http://music.williams.edu/category/ensembles/</a></p>
<p>I’m a member of the Berkshire Symphony. It’s not the only group…there are many faculty-coached chamber groups, the Student Symphony, chamber orchestra, ad hoc ensembles (e.g. for opera/choral performances, college ceremonies, area gigs), solo opportunities, etc. It is somewhat competitive to join the Berkshire Symphony…it’s not like we have prestigious conservatory standards, but it depends on who else is auditioning because there are a limited number of open chairs each year. (The orchestra is half professional.) The Student Symphony is much more casual and does not require an audition, so the nature of the group changes significantly each semester depending on available players and conductors. </p>
<p>Send me a PM if you want to chat more…I don’t want to divulge too much personal info on the forums. </p>