For most music student recording we do here we use a good pair of AKG-414's.
We also have quite a few Schoeps CMC microphones.
I think both the AKG and Schoeps mics are amazing for instrumental and choir recordings and would use these without a heart beat. (though if I could get my hands on our only pair of B&K microphones I think I'd have to go with them).
If budget's a real concern then there's always a pair of AKG C-3000's which are ok for Brass. I use them for the saxes in my last recording (we had a medium sized ensemble and I had used up the other mics).
Also, before you look at Rode and Shure, be sure to check out SE Electronics. Their mics offer great competition. I've got a pair of SE-1A cardoids and they compare well to a pair of AKG C-3000's imho.
I'd say a pair of SE mics would probably beat a pair of NT5's and the price point is comparable. Also don't rule out the Studio Projects C4 pair as an interesting comparison to a pair of NT5s.
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My latest piece:
for orchestra (recorded at Blackheath Halls, London,
March 2006, 2mins long)
