Enlisted/ Officer/ Active Duty /Army Reserve

The Army recently merged all the separate band MOS's (with the exception of Special Band Member) into a single MOS (42R), regardless of instrument played.

For over 225 years band members have been an important part of the U.S. Army. Members of the U.S. Army bands perform at Army ceremonies, parades, concerts, festivals, dances and many other events. They also perform ensembles ranging from ceremonial band to jazz band to small ensembles, and are required to play all styles of music. Note: Band is a special enlistment program. Applicants must pass a very rigorous audition process to enlist in the Army Band specialty.

Requirements:

• Be able to pass one or more very competitive and rigorous auditions (Click here to view the audition requirements)

• Be an accomplished musician and have good music sight-reading ability

Duties:

• Performing all applicable styles of music
  

• Playing in or leading bands, jazz groups or small ensembles
  

• Transposing moderately easy music
  

• Rehearsing and learning new music when not performing
  

• Performing auxiliary percussion in ceremonial band

• Performing and rehearsing as a professional musician within different ensembles of an Army band

• Perform in Army ceremonies, parades, concerts, festivals, dances, and other events as needed

• Augment local security during periods of heightened combat

Training:

• Nine weeks of Basic Training

• Up to 24 weeks of Advanced Individual Training at the Armed Forces School of Music in Norfolk, VA. Training length can vary depending on your level of instrumental proficiency

Additional training may include:

• Private instrumental instruction
  

• Music theory
  

• Sight singing and ear training
  

• Group instrumental techniques

• Percussion techniques
  

Additional Skills:

• Accomplished instrumentalist
  

• Understanding of music theory and harmony
  

• Poise when performing

• Ability to play more than one instrument
  

Advanced Skills:

• Supervise and train other Soldiers

• Perform duties in administration, training, supply and/or operations as required

Related Civilian Jobs:

Playing in the U.S. Army Band will afford a musician valuable experience and prepare the musician to play professionally in the civilian world. Possible civilian jobs might be playing with professional orchestras or bands in night clubs, concert halls, theaters and recording studios.