More Information

Responsibilities

Serving in the coveted specialty of an MU, you might:

  • Perform as a member of marching, concert, stage or dance bands or combos, in styles including jazz, rock, soul, pop, country/western and bluegrass
  • Conduct, rehearse and perform in these groups for radio, TV and stage productions
  • Compose, transcribe and arrange music for all types of ensembles
  • Give concerts and provide music for military ceremonies, religious services, parades and social occasions
  • Perform for Navy personnel and their families, for the general public, and at diplomatic functions

There are no part-time jobs available for this career track.

Work Environment

Navy Musicians can be assigned to play in one of the Navy’s two Premiere Bands: the United States Navy Band Washington, D.C., or the Naval Academy Band in Annapolis, MD. They may also perform in one of 11 Navy Fleet bands.

Navy musicians set the standard for musical excellence, performing in various musical styles anywhere in the world. Genres range from Broadway to big band, jazz to contemporary rock, country/western to baroque.

There are no part-time jobs available for this career track.

Training & Advancement

Upon completion of initial 7–9 week Recruit Training (known as Boot Camp), those pursuing a Musician role report to the Armed Forces School of Music in Little Creek, VA, where they receive formal Navy training at “A” School for 21 weeks. Here, they develop a working knowledge of performing in concert bands, marching bands, stage bands and small specialty ensembles.

Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. It’s also important to note that specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields.

There are no part-time jobs available for this career track.

Education Opportunities

Beyond offering access to professional credentials and certifications, Navy training in the musician field can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education. For example, college credit may be awarded for courses taken in music theory, conducting, and marching and concert band. You may also continue your education through opportunities like the following:

There are no part-time jobs available for this career track.

Qualifications & Requirements

A high-school diploma or equivalent is required to become an Enlisted Sailor in the music field in the Navy. Positions in this field are very limited, and qualified applicants must demonstrate a high level of musical skill and knowledge prior to being accepted. Applicants must also pass an official audition and meet all qualifications for enlistment in the Navy. Those seeking a Musician position must be US citizens.

Note that strict appearance requirements must be met in order to be considered.

Contact a Navy Recruiter or call or email the Navy Music Program Audition Supervisor to learn more.

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.

There are no part-time jobs available for this career track.