<p>I understand that at NEC there are auditions conducted for the purpose of ensemble placement. Also, as a brass player, I have heard that I would be placed in both an orchestra and wind ensemble. However, is it possible to decline one of the ensembles and, say, choose only to participate in the orchestra? I ask this for scheduling purposes, the exact details of which would require quite a bit of explanation.</p>
<p>Don’t know specifically about NEC, but at most conservatories instrumentalists must play in one of the orchestras and in one or more small ensembles/chamber groups. NEC’s web site does state that you will be placed in an orchestra and that " In addition to this core program, specialty ensembles provide additional playing opportunities for wind, brass, and percussion majors." There are also elective ensembles, which are just that, elective, so given that, I’d say yes, you have to play in something else in addition to your orchestra assignment.
Don’t wait, contact the Registrar or your studio teacher now to get your problem resolved before classes begin!</p>
<p>I know that at least for the tuba studio there’s just a rotation, so you’re just in orchestra for once concert cycle or even for just one piece. I think your applied teacher takes care of assignments, so if you had an issue you could ask him or her. It didn’t sound like people were having to do more than one concert cycle at a time, though. I’m sure you could figure it out when you got there.</p>