<p>I'll be a WCAS freshman this coming fall, and I have a few questions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Can anyone tell me anything about Sigma Alpha Iota? I haven't seen much on other threads about NU Greek life. What are the girls like, what is the rush process like?</li>
<li>What is the average caliber of a player in the Philharmonia orchestra? Are auditions competitive?</li>
<li>same as above for private lessons (I play the flute)</li>
</ul>
<p>If anyone else has any experience with NU non-major music, I would really appreciate the input as well.</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>I’m not going to be that helpful (sorry!) but I have a good friend in Sigma Alpha Iota and she seems to really like it! She’s really nice and friendly, too. I don’t think the rush process is that extreme or intense or anything. I have some friends in the orchestra who aren’t music majors too and they seem to enjoy it. </p>
<p>As a parent, I have noticed Northwestern is strong for non-music majors to participate in quality ensembles and performances. (We all know Bienen is a top SOM, so I am not covering that here.)
I recommend discussing audition details with Bienen because such things probably vary year to year for the ensembles that accept non-performance or non-graduate level students - for example there is the NUMB (marching band) which is different from various ensembles, as well as student organizations, which you will need to find out about once you are on campus. You may end up with class credit in some situations and make friends.
I recommend joining SAI, it is a professional – not a “Greek” organization - and as a parent I can only mention that my student has enjoyed affiliation with them. Rush takes place differently at NU than at some universities and for freshmen than for soph and above, so please look into this. There are students at Northwestern who have heavy performance experience who choose different majors and do keep their hand in the music world - as well as those who are more casual - so I suggest you check out all your options and experience different groups/performance opportunities! Chicago is outstanding as a city to attend a realm of music performances - and dance and opera -</p>
<p>My understanding from a non-music major who played for the Philharmonia is that the talent level was similar to that of his all-state orchestra. It is open to both music and non-music majors so I expect auditions are competitive.</p>
<p>I’m noticing this late, but our S is a rising Freshman in WCAS and was able to play in the NU Jazz Orchestra last year (usually only open to Bienen students… mostly grad students), as they needed his instrument. It was a great opportunity for him, since he was surrounded by amazing players, got course credit, and didn’t have to pay the typical non-major fee for private lessons. I’m not sure he’ll get the same chance next year, but it was fun while it lasted. 
He says there are many other strong jazz ensembles he’ll always be able to play in, even as a non major.</p>
<p>Our D (in Communications) paid for non-major extra voice lessons her first year and said they were great. </p>
<p>Both of our kids rushed, and both really love the Greek kids they’ve met although neither are typical sorority/frat types. I gather from them that NU is a very inclusive welcoming campus whether you are Greek or not.</p>