Should I drop orchestra?

<p>Hello. I'm a sophomore at a tiny, private high school. I've been taking orchestra for 7 years. I'm pretty terrible at the violin, and I don't particularly enjoy playing it. My parents never made me practice back when I started, and I only began private lessons 2 years ago. In terms of ability, I'm years behind the majority of people in my class. I constantly struggle with the simplistic pieces my teacher hands out. I get by, but I just dislike the class and the violin in general. I've never done anything with my ability outside of school (i.e.: try out for Allstate). I just have some questions...</p>

<p>How will this affect my admission to college? I get A's in all my classes, and I've got some pretty solid extracurriculars. I'll fill the gap in my schedule with an elective. </p>

<p>How do I approach my orchestra teacher? Like I said, I've been with her for 7 years. She encouraged me to stay in orchestra on my most recent report card, and said that she's pleased with my efforts. I feel bad about dropping out, but, like I said, I want to do so nevertheless. Since I plan to drop the violin entirely after high school, I'll have few qualms.
Sorry about the unnecessary length here, and thanks, in advance, for answering my question!</p>

<p>It sounds like you’re not enjoying orchestra, which should be your main reason for staying. I say drop it. There’s no reason to force yourself to continue (and don’t do it for your teacher or anyone else). This is your life. Who knows, maybe the elective you’ll take instead will be your dream class or something.
As far as college admissions goes, they will be impressed with a 7+ commitment, but only if you plan on continuing in college, if you have major achievements or if you chose to write about it in your college essay as something that has influenced your life positively. if they see you’ve done it for 9 years, but that’s all, they probably wont be particularly impressed. So, there’s nothing to worry about.
And hey- you can still use this in your college essay if you want. You can write something about how you found yourself by finally going on a different path, and not doing something just for others. (that’s just an idea)
good luck with everything!</p>

<p>Thanks! I’ll talk to my teacher this week, so I can finally get this albatross off my neck…</p>