Enlisting in Military Band After High School

I play several instruments and was thinking about enlisting in a military band instead of going to college right away. What is the process like for auditioning and joining a military band straight out of high school?

Joining a military band is a great way to continue your passion for music while also serving your country, and it's a path that many musicians consider. Each of the U.S. military branches has its band, and while the requirements may vary slightly, there are a few common steps to keep in mind.

First, you'll have to pass a military physical fitness test as well as meet other basic military requirements, such as age and citizenship status. Before you start preparing for any auditions, make sure you meet these basic requirements.

As for the musical audition process, it's quite rigorous and competitive. You'll typically need to prepare a variety of musical pieces as well as scales and sight-reading exercises. The auditions themselves vary by branch, but generally, you'll be expected to play solos, technical studies, and sight-reading material.

Though you mentioned you're looking at this path straight out of high school, it's worth noting that many of the military musicians have some level of professional experience or education beyond high school, like a bachelor's degree in music. While this is not always a requirement, it might help in a highly competitive environment, especially for more prestigious or specialized roles within the bands.

Once accepted, before you start playing in the band, you'll have to go through basic military training, typically several weeks long, just like any other recruit. Following basic training, you will usually go through further schooling or training specific to your role in the band.

Remember, this is a significant commitment, usually for several years, and being a military musician does involve military duties beyond your musical responsibilities. It's advisable to do thorough research and perhaps speak with current or former military band members to get a clearer understanding of what to expect.

Always contact the specific band you're interested in for details about their audition process and what they're looking for. Military bands, like all military roles, have their recruiters and contacts who can give you relevant, up-to-date information specific to your situation.