<p>I'm thinking about joining the MIT orchestra in the fall, and i was just wondering how hard it is to get in as a string (specifically violin) player.</p>
<p>any input at all will be highly appreciated</p>
<p>I don’t think it’s especially hard to enter as a string player, but, then again, I think the orchestra itself is severely lacking players. The last time I attended a concert, the first violin section was sadly undermanned, and I could actually hear individual players straining to eek out enough volume to match the woodwinds and brass. So, please, join if you can! Also, I think chamber music is a very rewarding experience if you’re interested (they also offer credit).</p>
<p>This is surprising to hear. I thought the music department at MIT was strong. Do instrumentalists play with other groups outside of MIT? I understand the Emerson scholars can take lessons from teachers in the communities of Cambridge or Boston, so perhaps they play in groups off campus?</p>
<p>My son is also a violinist and will be involved in music.</p>
<p>The MIT Music department IS strong, and the professors and teachers are absolutely excellent. It’s just that most students playing in the MIT orchestra aren’t music majors, and their time is very limited. Playing an instrument well is a huge commitment, and requires careful time management.</p>