<p>how can we get a handle on the quality of college orchestras (those open to non-music majors and non-conservatory students)? are these rated anywhere?</p>
<p>I'd recommend posting in the music major forum, everyone there would have a tremendous amount of suggestions for you :)
However, I do know that Skidmore (in NY) gives scholarships to non music majors willing to play in their orchestras/ensembles, if that helps you at all.</p>
<p>thanks for the suggestion.</p>
<p>My D is playing in the band at Bucknell, non-major, with a scholarship and free lessons. You have to apply for the scholarship separate and submit a CD. Playing in the band was important to her and was a major factor in where she applied. We found the smaller schools offered the best opportunity for her to play as a non music major. However, you have to ask. When she applied to Amherst, she later found out that the band is shared with UMass and other schools in the consortium and she would have to go off campus to play at UMass. Good to know ahead of time. Good luck.</p>
<p>yes, i went to bucknell, and the orchestra was really good back then.</p>
<p>University of Rochester.</p>
<p>Eastman School of Music is part of UR. UR students can receive free music lessons at Eastman and all the musical ensembles/groups are open to UR students as well as Eastman students. h.)</p>
<p>D's roommate takes violin lessons and plays in the String ensemble. D auditioned for saxophone lessons, but since the program is classically oriented and she plays jazz....decided not take lessons. </p>
<p>Music is a big part of UR. I've heard (from the Dean of Freshman) that as many as 1/3 of all non-music students participate in some sort of musical activity through Eastman.</p>
<p>As for the quality of Eastman---it's very, very good.</p>
<p>Indiana University has a great music program</p>
<p>rochester sounds great.</p>