<p>How competitive is admission into this orchestra? I play the trumpet among other instruments and it has always been my dream to play in an orchestra as opposed to a concert band becuase of my love of classical music. I'm at a fairly high level on the trumpet but there are certainly people better than me, and I've finally signed up for a private teacher. I am now a junior.</p>
<p>Openings for instruments vary year to year depending on how many people a section might be losing to graduation. I am not in the orchestra, but I have friends who are and they say that it is fairly competitive, but not impossible. As a trumpet player you might have some more competition, but even if things don't work out for you Freshman year there are other ensembles and bands that would allow you to play. You also have the opportunity to audition every year.</p>
<p>If you're just now beginning private lessons, you probably aren't good enough to make the cut first year. There is a group called Symphonia designed for people who don't quite make it into Orchestra, so you could benefit from playing in it for a year and then auditioning again.</p>
<p>Well, I did take private lessons before this, just not since high school started. I have been continuously playing since 4th grade though.</p>
<p>The orchestra is tough, especially for Brass. You should definitely try out for it and Symphonia, but both are surprisingly challenging. You might also want to check Wind Ensemble, I heard they take some brass for certain shows, though I'm not sure. Also keep in mind orchestra is a pretty big commitment.</p>
<p>All I know about the orchestra is that a friend who is very good at the cello (1st chair in all-state in a v. competitive state) did not do so well on his seating test and "barely made it." He might have risen up the ranks by now though, not too sure.</p>