<p>I want to comment on something glassharmonica said, which I agree with: </p>
<p>"not all music is equal. Stick to playing that will improve your skills-- the studies and repertoire your teacher assigns, and to music that increases your musicianship-- string quartets, and maybe string orchestra and true orchestral rep. You don’t have an unlimited lease on your body. Use it wisely. “”</p>
<p>As a violist, playing in a HS pit orchestra will not improve your skills for professional orchestral playing.</p>
<p>As a mulitple woodwinds player, performing with professional players in a professional setting DOES improve one’s skills for playing in professional pit orchestras, military bands, big band shows and sight-reading.</p>