August 1, 2008 at 09:36 PM · The decision has to be yours. Normally one would like to see more advanced works in you repertorie by this time, but it varies. You may be learning these works at a higher level than other students and gaining what you need from them. But here is my advice - the next 1.5 years work your butt off. Practice as much as possible. Making state should be a goal as that is an indication of where you stand among your peers (but it is not everything). Also, what do you want to achieve? A position in a major sympony, teaching, teaching and a regional orchestra? The major symphony gigs are getting very tough, but there are many people making a decent living freelancing, teaching, or playing in studios, and pit orchestras. One of the best freelance violinists in this area couldn't even make the semifinals in a 2nd violin audition for the local symphony that he subs in for almost every concert. The quality of players vying for these few full time positions is amazing. Not trying to put you off, but you do need to know the reality. Even back in the 80's, friends of mine couldn't get an audition with a major orchestra because they did not go to one of the top music schools. I went to one of the "Majors" and got accepted to every audition I applied for, and I doubt I was any better. So that is something else to consider when you start thinking of schools.