Exploring Music Career Opportunities in the US Military

I'm passionate about music and considering joining the military after high school. What kinds of music jobs are available in the US military, and what's the process to audition or apply for these positions?

In every branch of the US military, there are music career opportunities. These include positions such as instrumentalists, conductors, arrangers, composers, and even audio engineers. Whether you play the flute, trumpet, violin, or drums, there's a place for you in one of the military bands or choruses.

Army: The Army offers roles as instrumentalist, vocalists, conductors, composers, and arrangers. You can join the United States Army Band ("Pershing's Own"), Army Field Bands, Army Bands, or one of the Special Bands. To audition, you need to submit a resume, a completed audition packet, and follow the audition guidelines found on their respective websites.

Navy: The Navy Music Program consists of several ensembles, including the Navy Band in Washington D.C., various fleet bands around the country and around the world, and the School of Music. An audition/interview is required and you'll have to pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) and the physical examination.

Air Force: The Air Force has several bands, including the United States Air Force Band, regional Air National Guard bands, and the band of the Air Force Reserve. The auditioning process requires applicants to submit a preliminary audition tape, after which selected candidates will be invited for a live audition.

Marines: The United States Marine Corps has an assortment of music ensembles such as 'The Commandant's Own' (The United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps), 'The President's Own' (The United States Marine Band), and field bands located around the US. Entry into these bands requires passing an audition. Auditions are scheduled upon receipt and review of your audition packet.

Coast Guard: The United States Coast Guard also has band opportunities. There are specific audition elements, including a taped audition, which is reviewed by a panel. If the taped audition is successful, the candidate is invited to New London, Connecticut for an in-person audition.

Space Force: Although the Space Force is the newest branch, as of now, they do not appear to have established a separate music program yet.

Before you audition, make sure you're physically fit and meet all military entrance requirements. It's worth noting that you may have to perform military duties in addition to your musical responsibilities. It’s a good idea to reach out directly to the bands you’re interested in for exact audition requirements and processes. Many of them offer audition guides online you can use to prepare. Let me know if you need more information, happy to help with your journey!