<p>UMass does have a symphony orchestra, entrance is open to everyone, but you have to audition. I don’t know how hard it is for non-majors to get in. I imagine the other schools would have groups as well.</p>
<p>[University</a> Orchestra](<a href=“http://www.umass.edu/orchestra/Home.html]University”>http://www.umass.edu/orchestra/Home.html)</p>
<p>There are other groups, and theatre troupes putting on musicals, etc.</p>
<p>One of the professors has set up a page for the violinists an UMass, you could probably contact her directly to get a better feel:</p>
<p>[UMass</a> Violins](<a href=“http://www.umassviolins.org/]UMass”>http://www.umassviolins.org/)</p>
<p>String players are always in demand, there will be opportunities somewhere. As a last resort, your kid could switch to viola, conductors will be beating down their door. 
Trust me on this, I play viola. 
</p>
<p>ETA: Ok, I just noticed your kid <em>is</em> a violist. Don’t know why I read that as violinist.</p>