<p>I'm not majoring in music, but would love to play in a symphonic orchestra in college. Can I do this at Yale? How is their symphonic or chamber orchestra(s), and are they lacking violas so much that I might get a scholarship just for playing?</p>
<p>Yale is known to be the most, or at least one of the most, musical ivy leagues. The Yale Symphony Orchestra is top-notch, and not only is it a great group of nearly professional calibar musicians, but it is also well-respected across campus. They lead the Halloween night festivities, I believe, and their concerts are anticipated by the students. But if you don't want to do the YSO, there are tons of other options! There are tons of student-run groups including the Saybrook Orchestra, which is less intense but almost on the level of the YSO.</p>
<p>In terms of getting in to Yale, viola can definitely help you, but you won't get a scholarship per say. They're not lacking violas, but if they see your playing as a potential asset to the class or as an example of your excelling in a certain passion, then it may factor in to admission. The ivy leagues only give financial need scholarships to those they admit; merit scholarships aren't awarded.</p>
<p>Yale also has the Yale School of Music. You should look into that.</p>