How necessary is it for a wannabe-music ed major? I'm debating whether I should take lessons.

I know basics, but not much (taught myself).

I'd say it's a necessity, you'll pretty much get eaten alive in college Music Theory classes without knowing a lot of piano. I would say just get to as high a level as you're willing. And practice site reading, too.

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***Sight, not site :P Blonde moment...

I do play flute, so it's not like I don't know any music theory.

Hmm. I think I will convince my parents.