Hi, classical pianist and violinist here!
I’ve been playing the piano for 11 or 12 years or so and played the violin for 4 years along with the 4 years on guitar (I don’t like guitar as much so I have less practicing time in it). I was wondering if there was a required set experience (which I assume there is) and if it is high for example minimum Grade 6-7 ABRSM etc or if instructors teach you to play that instrument and present it in front of an audience later on in the year. Can you be a part of the orchestra with 2 instrument positions or is solely one?
Also a question that’s sort of relevant. How do you musicians manage your practice time with study time? I’ve heard of musicians abandoning their hobby because of the additional stress and lack of time. Would I need to do the same if reaching for a high GPA?
If you haven’t found the Music Major subforum yet, you might find it very helpful. http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/music-major/
There are many colleges with excellent orchestras that nonmajors may participate in; your experience will vary with the specific school. Clearly, you’ll have a better chance of joining the orchestra as a violinist since they need more string players than pianists. Private lessons are also available, often for free, at many schools.
In terms of time management, that’s an individual thing. Some musicians manage to find the balance between practice and other study, and others decide that they can’t devote as much time to music as a side activity for a while, choosing to pick it back up later in life. There are plenty of adult music groups - even camps! - and lots of active adult players who enjoy music at a high level for fun. There’s even an orchestra comprised entirely of medical doctors! (And then there’s the “Really Terrible Orchestra” in Scotland, which is actually better than the name implies!)