<p>Wow, I learned so much from reading all of your posts. Thanks. I appreciate it.</p>
<p>You might also want to look into the lesson exchange Barnard has with Manhattan School of Music. My sister did the exchange for piano lessons and was very satisfied. I would have done the same but MSM/Barnard don't have lesson exchanges for vocalists. I'm in the Northwestern double degree program but am not taking the theory classes, because I was disappointed to find out that all the undergrad. theory classes are taught by TAs. One of the TAs just graduated from Columbia with a bachelor's degree, is not even working for a masters or doctorate, and was in some of my sister's music classes. so I thought why am I paying all this money to be taught by someone just as qualified as my sister. Right now, I'm thinking of transferring to Barnard, because the theory program at Columbia/Barnard is a lot more stable.</p>
<p>Wow, you're getting great advice!
As for BU: excellent place for cello. The double degree is not particularly encouraged, rarely completed (maybe 1-3 students/year), and not too rewarding anyway since honors classes in Arts and Sciences at BU aren't open to music students-- even double degree students, regardless of qualifications-- and the other classes are really hit-and-miss in quality.</p>
<p>However, BU's music school has some great offerings; the honors theory courses are excellent, and the Opera Institute is so good that even being in the pit orchestra is a great experience.</p>