U.S. ARMY - ARMY STRONG ®
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Army Insignia
Army Bands
  • Overview
  • About Army Bands
  • Band Careers & Jobs
  • Types of Army Bands
  • Musician Profiles
Auditions

Find out when and how to audition for an Army band.

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Special Instrument
Fulfillment Program

As an Army bandperson you might qualify for,  the special instrument fulfillment program if you can play any of the instruments listed below. Those with an asterisk(*) may qualify for additional financial incentives up to $7,000 for wind instruments or up to $15,000 for rhythm instruments. Ask your recruiter for details.

  • Baritone & Euphonium
  • Bassoon
  • Clarinet*
  • Electric Bass*
  • Electric Guitar*
  • Flute & Piccolo
  • French Horn*
  • Keyboard/Piano*
  • Oboe
  • Percussion
  • Saxophone
  • Trombone
  • Trumpet*
  • Tuba
Learn more about these jobs
U.S. Army band ensamble performing

Band Careers & Jobs

The Opportunity To Inspire Talented Musicians

If you're already studying music in school or are a working musician, the Army band program offers great opportunities for your musical career — opportunities you wouldn't find as a civilian musician. It's a paying gig that gives you the time to concentrate on your love of music while earning a steady paycheck. As an Army bandperson, Special band member or Army bands officer, you'll be able to hone your musical techniques and abilities in a variety of musical styles. You may even be eligible for an assignment to one of the Army bands playing worldwide for dignitaries, heads of state or even the president of the United States.

Army Bandsperson (42R)

Music plays an important role in the Army. Members of Army bands are involved in the vibrant tradition of performing at Army ceremonies, parades, concerts, festivals, dances and many other events. Musicians perform in a variety of ensembles ranging from ceremonial band to jazz band to small ensembles, playing all styles of music.

Special Band Member (42S)

Musicians and singers perform in service bands, orchestras and small groups, playing marches, classics, jazz and popular music. The special band member performs as a musician or in direct support of the mission of the U.S. Army Band, U.S. Army Field Band, U.S. Military Academy Band or the 3rd Infantry (The Old Guard) Fife and Drum Corps.

Band Officer (42C)

Music offers exciting careers in the Army with significant opportunities for advancement. Every year, the Army band program selects one or two highly qualified individuals via competitive auditions to serve as Army bands officers. These officers rotate through a variety of positions: associate conductor (executive officer), administrator and instructor at the Armed Forces School of Music. After several years of experience, they may also serve as commander and principle conductor of an Army band.