How to Be an Army Musician

Army band musicians are soldiers as well as entertainers.

Do you need money for college? Do you play a band instrument, guitar or percussion of any type? You may not have considered this, but you can become an Army musician and soldier if you are of a certain age and weight and pass an armed services exam. Also, you must be in fairly good health and have the ability to pass a brief musical audition and be away from home for extended periods of time.

Instructions

1. Find a recruiter in your area. This can be done by contacting your high school or college guidance counselor's office. Or follow the link in the Resources section and click any of the informational bars on the right-hand side of the screen. You can even start the application process online.

2. 

   Decide whether you want to be a "weekend warrior," which means you will be in the U.S. Army Reserves or Army National Guard, or "regular Army," which will mean you are a full-time Army musician, most likely stationed away from home.

3. Visit the base or location where you will be training or drilling on the weekends, to get a better feel for the environment and the other band members. You may want to come a few times if you live in the area. Do not forget to ask the band members as many questions as you can think of. If you have a few different bases to choose from, visit all of them to help you make a decision of where best to serve.

4. Study the military entrance-exam questions ahead of time if possible, and make sure you pass your physical. If you are still absolutely sure of your decision, then sign on the dotted line. You will need to attend basic training to complete the deal, and this will officially enlist you as a member of the U.S. Army band. You are on the road to becoming an Army musician.

5. Make sure you can take time off from work or school for basic training and the annual active duty you will need to serve each year. This time adds up to two weeks or more in the Army Reserves or National Guard. If you are enlisted full-time in the regular Army, you can skip this step. Some employers will make up any pay decrease you could experience. Check with your human resources department for more details. Clear your calendar for all army band functions if you are in the reserves or national guard. This includes parades, concerts, festivals and other appearances.

6. Keep the instrument(s) you check out in good working order. Report any problems immediately. You will need these instruments on a regular basis.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay in shape so you look your best in your uniform when you are out on appearances.

• Make sure you pass all tests, drills and exams so you can continue to serve out your contract in the Army band.

Resources

• GOarmy.com band page
• ASVAB test practice questions page