<p>I have a quick question about ensembles at William and Mary. Basically, what is the hierarchy. I know there is a symphony, band and jazz program. I want to continue playing the flute but I don't want something that is extremely intense and requires most of my free time. Are there any groups you don't have to audition for?</p>
<p>I believe that every group sponsored by the Music Department requires an audition and most are one credit classes that meet for 2-4 hours each week. There are also numerous student organizations which are ensembles that also likely require auditions but might have fewer practice hours.</p>
<p>I looked at the student organizations on the website and there doesn’t seem to be too many opportunities. The only organization unrelated to the music department seemed to be the pep band. Could you maybe provide some examples?</p>
<p>These 2 links show you what other ensembles exist besides the symphony orchestra, band program, and choir program.</p>
<p>[William</a> & Mary -*Classical & Jazz Ensembles](<a href=“http://www.wm.edu/as/music/ensembles/classicalandjazz/index.php]William”>http://www.wm.edu/as/music/ensembles/classicalandjazz/index.php)</p>
<p>[William</a> & Mary -*Non-Traditional and World-Music Ensembles](<a href=“http://www.wm.edu/as/music/ensembles/nontraditional/index.php]William”>http://www.wm.edu/as/music/ensembles/nontraditional/index.php)</p>
<p>the symphony orchestra probably has 3 flute spots, or 2 + a picc. This group is 1 credit and meets T/H for 2 hours each day.</p>
<p>the wind symphony probably has 5-6 flute spots. This group is 1 credit and meets MW for 2 hours each day, and sometimes on Friday for 1 hour.</p>
<p>the jazz ensemble is a big band setup (also by audition), and likely will utilize a flute rarely.</p>
<p>your best chance to continue playing your flute in a group environment without an audition (and in a relaxed and fun atmosphere) is the Pep Band. The Pep Band generally rehearses only 1 hour a week, and is at all home football games and sometimes away games (last year went to UVA, Richmond, and Villanova (playoffs)). In the winter the Pep Band plays at home basketball games, and the CAA tournament in Richmond. Also traveled to the NIT game @UNC. It’s also a social group. As a former director of the Pep Band, I would obviously recommend you give it a try. Even if you don’t like sports that much, it’s a fun environment.</p>
<p>I know there have been numerous groups in the past like the Poppadoms and smaller quartets and quintets that have probably come and gone over the years. You could certainly start something similar outside of the Music Department if you wish however most of the recognized ensembles are part of the Music Department’s program.</p>