Do you need to be a music major to be in an orchestra?

Question

Do you need to be a music major to be in an orchestra?

Answer 1

Not really - I'm a Grade 3 clarinetist  and do school orchestra and some people are REALLY good, but there are people on the 2nd and 3rd parts and percussion that aren't all that good... but it  all sounds fine :)

Answer 2

Well, that depends on what type of orchestra you're talking about.

If you mean a high school orchestra, no.  Some require private lessons, but that's usually the only requirement if any, aside actually knowing how to play the instrument of choice.

If you mean a small adult orchestra, no -- but you do have to be dedicated and know your instrument well.

For a medium sized orchestra, it usually depends.  Sometimes they'll accept non-majoring musicians provided they're incredibly talented.  Sometimes they won't; it depends.

For large orchestras, you either need to be a well-trained prodigy or at least have something in music theory.  Most will only accept people with high credentials in terms of both learning and playing.

Answer 3

Since you use the term "music major", I think maybe you are referring to a college level orchestra?

Usually, there is an audition process, and is open to everyone.  However, if there is a designated number of slots (say they only accept 12 violins), priority goes to those who are enrolled in the music program.  Even if you are a student at the school, but NOT in the music program, you are considered a community member.  

Schools accept community members, sometimes for a fee, if you are knowledgable about your instrument, and DEPENDABLE- ie will show up to rehearsals EVERY week.  They do this because there are some instrumentalists that are very hard to find- bassoon, oboe, and harp players all fall into this list.  It is cheaper for the school to open the slots to community members, rather than having to pay "ringers" to come in and fill out the parts for concerts.  If you play one of these instruments, chances are that they won't care what kind of training you've had, so long as you can play your part and take direction! LOL

Now there are community orchestras outside of college too.  The competition can be a little more harsh (depending on the instrument) and many of these musicians are semi-professional who also teach.  Generally, obtaining a spot is based on ability... keeping it is based on dependability.

It is not so different from the big professional orchestras, but most (if not all) the musicians competiting for those slots have been trained "properly" in college... they all were the top 2 or 3 chairs in the top bands, gave stunning recitals, etc...

The best advice I can give you is to call around to your local colleges and community orchestras and find out when their auditions are (get your name on a list NOW)... then get a private teacher to help you keep up with repetoire.  Also, some very large church groups have their own orchestras- there are often spots open around Passover, Easter, Christmas, etc.  You don't have to be of the faith to play in these, but you do have to be respectful.  Other then that, make sure to practice a little EVERY DAY, and have fun!

Good Luck!