A few days ago
j.mochi

Will joining band or orchestra increase my chances of getting into a good college?

I’m a freshmen in high school and I’m really hoping to get into a UC (prefferably UCB). I’m pretty aware of what classes I have to take, but I didn’t take Orchestra this year. In fact, I didn’t take any performing/visual arts elective this year (very stupid). I have 3 years experience with the violin, although I’m pretty mediocre due to lack of practice. I was in the Orchestra in middle school, and I didn’t enjoy it very much.

I’m thinking about joining it sophomore year, but is it neccesary? Should I just take art classes instead? I know if I practice, I could improve with the right motivation, but as much as I want to get into a good college, I want to have a good time on the way.

Another problem is that I like playing the violin, however I would like to try new instruments as well. I’m wondering if violin is truly the instrument for me. My friend who once played the violin learned the flute last year and now he’s in the marching band! Should I try a new instrument?

Top 3 Answers
A few days ago
blueangelfire995

Favorite Answer

Taking a class like orchestra just because you want it to look good on your transcript probably isn’t a good idea, considering the amount of genuine motivation you need for enjoying such a class. If you really feel like you like playing the violin and want to get better, though, then go for it! If you can’t fit it into your schedule, you can always take private lessons to improve or you can see if there are any after school clubs. My school had a quartet thing that I joined last year.

You could always try a new instrument if you want, or take that art class. Colleges like to see dedication to something, so if you can, continue your interest in any of those areas, but make sure you are genuinely interested in it.

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A few days ago
RoaringMice
I wouldn’t do violin and orchestra again. To me, it sounds like it’s time to move beyond those.

You could take an art class, and see if that sparks something in you. But you said you do like music, so I do suggest that you try marching band. Of course, you’d need to pick up another instrument. But marching band is an entirely different environment than orchestra. It’s much livelier, in my experience, and there’s a real social aspect to it. It can be a lot of fun. Band at university is also a blast. You get to know a lot of people very quickly in that way, so if you end up being interested in band in highschool, you may really enjoy doing it in college.

As for which instrument: that’s up to you. Maybe something with similar fingerings to the violin. Or, instead, try something radically different. Drumline? :wiggles eyebrows: You could go to the local music store or to the band teacher and ask them what band instruments are similar in fingerings to violin, or you can ask the marching band instructor at school what instruments they need most desperately, and try those out. You could also pick up an instrument whose sound interests you, and try that.

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5 years ago
?
Only if you’ve been doing it for a long time and show great commitment to it.
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