Employment Spot

Job Description

Some of the most important and exciting careers in the country are performed by U.S. Army Soldiers. Whether it’s working with computers to assisting physicians to fixing helicopters or playing a musical instrument in the band, there’s an Army job that’s right for you. See for yourself the long list of job and leadership training opportunities that give you the skills and strength to succeed in the Armyâ€"and in life.

US Army Band / Musician

Job Description:

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.

The Army Bandsperson specializes in one (or more) of the following instruments:

• Tuba
• Trombone
• Euphonium
• Bassoon
• Electric Bass Guitar
• Saxophone
• Flute or Piccolo
• Oboe
• Clarinet
• French Horn
• Percussion
• Cornet or Trumpet
• Guitar
• Keyboard 

Training:

Job training for a Bandsperson consists of nine weeks of Basic Training, during which you'll learn basic Soldiering skills. You'll also need 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.

Some training includes:

• Private instrumental instruction
• Music theory
• Sight singing and ear training
• Group instrumental techniques
• Percussion techniques

Duties:

Some of your duties as an Army Bandsperson may include:

• Playing in or leading bands, orchestras, combos, jazz groups or small ensembles
• Performing for ceremonies, parades, concerts, festivals and dances
• Performing all applicable styles of music
• Performing auxiliary percussion in a ceremonial band
• Transposing moderately easy music
• Rehearsing and learning new music when not performing

Benefits:

The training and salary you get are only some of the ways the Army strengthens you for tomorrow. The Army Band also offers a variety of comprehensive benefits that include the following:

• Additional Cash Bonus prorated by the amount of college you have
• Professional quality instruments, supplies and music provided free of charge
• Enlistment bonuses for specific instruments
• Life insurance and other essential benefits at low or no cost
• Comprehensive health care (medical and dental)
• Generous vacation time (30 days annually)
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Family services and support groups
• Special pay for special duties
• Cash allowances to cover the cost of living

You may also be eligible for:

• Enlistment bonuses totaling up to $40,000
• Up to $81,756 for college
• Up to $65,000 to repay qualifying student loans
• Up to $4,500 a year tuition assistance while serving

Job Requirements

Requirements:

The Army Band Program is open to talented musicians, male or female, who are qualified to enlist in the Army and can pass a prearranged audition with an instrument of their choice. But more importantly, the program is for anyone who has a passion for his/her instrument and a love for playing and performing music.  Below are a few additional requirements:

• U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien
• 17–41 years old
• Healthy and in good physical condition
• In good moral standing
• High School or equivalent education
• Enlistment in the U.S. Army

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