A Soldier marches down a street playing a drum while surrounded by the rest of the Army Band on parade A Soldier marches down a street playing a drum while surrounded by the rest of the Army Band on parade

Army Bands

Take your talents to the next level while you support your fellow Soldiers through the power of music.

Soldier plays guitar and sings in Army Band in rock concert setting Soldier plays guitar and sings in Army Band in rock concert setting

Perform Your Passion

As an Army Bands Musician, Special Bands member, or Army Bands Officer, making music means you’re making a difference.

  • Motivates and inspires deployed Soldiers through music
  • Provides musical support for events and local communities
  • Challenges you to improve as a musician

The Army Bands Advantage

As a member of U.S. Army Bands, you’ll get opportunities you won’t get anywhere else.

Army Band Soldiers lined up ready for a parade, in uniform and holding brass instruments and led by a band leader Army Band Soldiers lined up ready for a parade, in uniform and holding brass instruments and led by a band leader

Musical Variety

With over 80 Army Bands and more than 17 different instrumental and technical specialties, there’s a place where your musical talents and skills can shine.

Three Army Band Soldiers in uniform, lined up and playing brass instruments Three Army Band Soldiers in uniform, lined up and playing brass instruments

Freedom to Play

Focus on the thing you love most—making music—while getting paid and maintaining military benefits, even if you serve part time.

Army Band Soldier in uniform plays a wind instrument and reads sheet music in front of the rest of the band Army Band Soldier in uniform plays a wind instrument and reads sheet music in front of the rest of the band

Travel Opportunities

Discover all the places your music is needed, from national public parades to overseas tours.

Army Band Soldier in T-shirt plays electric guitar in rock concert setting Army Band Soldier in T-shirt plays electric guitar in rock concert setting

Financial Stability for the Future

As a member of U.S. Army Bands, you’ll receive benefits that will allow you the freedom to focus on your music without worrying about where the next paycheck is coming from.

  • Competitive starting salary (E-4 pay grade), plus allowances
  • Up to $65,000 student loan repayment for select instruments
  • Comprehensive health care
  • 30 paid vacation days a year

Army Band Soldiers in uniform lined up playing horns with flags hanging down from each horn, in an outdoor setting Army Band Soldiers in uniform lined up playing horns with flags hanging down from each horn, in an outdoor setting

Discover the Band for You

U.S. Army Bands are comprised of four branches: 20 active-duty Regional Bands, 13 Army Reserve Bands, 51 Army National Guard Bands, and four Premier Bands, each with its own unique mission and qualifications.

Army Band Soldier in uniform singing into microphone Army Band Soldier in uniform singing into microphone

Musical Diversity

Each U.S. Army Band offers more than 17 different instrumental and technical specialties. While your primary instrument is your key to being selected, we value the ability to double on other instruments.

Army Band Soldier in uniform plays full drum kit in blue lit rock concert setting Army Band Soldier in uniform plays full drum kit in blue lit rock concert setting

How to Join

If you want to see how the Army can help you pursue your musical career, we’d like to help you get there.

  • Reach out and let us know you’re interested in U.S. Army Bands
  • You’ll set up an audition with us to demonstrate your musical skill level
  • We’ll let you know if you’re selected to be a Musician, Bands Officer, or Conductor with U.S. Army Bands

Common Questions About Army Bands

Will I still have to go to Basic Training as an Army Musician?

As an enlisted Soldier/Musician, you will need to attend Basic Training. In addition, a ten-week course, Advanced Individual Training (AIT), is also required at the Army School of Music in Virginia Beach, VA.

Do I need previous musical experience to join Army Bands?

Our musicians are selected based on proficiency of their instruments. You are not required to have previous experience as a professional musician or in a musical academic setting—your skill level is your greatest qualification.

Will the Army provide me with an instrument?

Yes, the Army will issue you a professional-quality instrument when you join your unit.

Can I audition for the Army Band while currently serving?

Yes, you can still audition, and many do. Be sure to request permission from your chain of command.