How to Apply for Military Band Positions

Each branch has different bands, locations, and cultures. Army has the most bands (~100), Navy and Air Force have regional bands worldwide, Marines have the most competitive auditions, and Coast Guard has one premier band.

• Research which branch appeals to your lifestyle goals
• Consider location preferences — some bands are fixed, others deploy
• Talk to current or former military musicians if possible

Reach out to a military recruiter and specifically express interest in a musician MOS (Military Occupational Specialty). For Army, this is 42R (Army Musician). For other branches, your recruiter can direct you to the appropriate music program.

• Tell the recruiter immediately that you want to be a musician
• Ask about upcoming audition dates and locations
• Request the specific requirements for your instrument

Military band auditions are serious, professional-level auditions. You will typically prepare orchestral excerpts, scales, and sight-reading. Some branches also require jazz or popular music repertoire.

• Request the official audition requirements from your recruiter or the band directly
• Prepare at least 2-3 contrasting solo excerpts
• Practice sight-reading daily — this is often the deciding factor
• Be ready for scales (all major and minor, full range)
• Some auditions include jazz standards or popular music

Before or alongside your audition, you will need to complete military entrance processing. This includes the ASVAB test, a physical examination at MEPS, and background screening.

• ASVAB: Musicians need a minimum General Technical (GT) score — typically 100+
• Physical: Standard military medical and fitness screening
• Background check: A clean criminal record is generally required
• Drug screening: Zero tolerance policy

After passing your audition and entrance processing, you will attend Basic Combat Training (BCT) or equivalent boot camp for your branch. This is typically 8-12 weeks of physical training, military skills, and discipline.

• Start a fitness program 3-6 months before basic training
• Running, push-ups, and sit-ups are the key exercises
• You will not play your instrument during basic training
• Mental resilience matters as much as physical fitness

After basic training, you will attend the Armed Forces School of Music (Army and Navy) in Virginia Beach, VA, or equivalent training for your branch. This is where you refine your military music skills.

• The Armed Forces School of Music is shared by Army, Navy, and Marines
• Air Force has its own music training program
• Training covers marching, ceremonial music, and ensemble performance
• Typical duration: 6-24 weeks depending on branch and specialty

After completing all training, you will receive your assignment and report to your permanent duty station. Military musicians typically serve a 4-year initial enlistment and can re-enlist for career continuation.

• You may get to submit a preference for duty station
• Assignments are based on the needs of the military
• Many musicians make a 20+ year career of military music