About
The U.S. Navy Music Program has a proud tradition of setting a high standard of musical excellence. If you meet this standard and are looking for an exciting career, join the Navy team and be part of one of the TOP music programs in the nation. You will receive all the support and expert training needed to achieve professional status, earning excellent pay and college credits while performing with some of the finest musicians in the country. Life as a Navy Musician (MU) is one of variety! Whether you are assigned to one of our two Premiere Bands, the United States Navy Band Washington, DC or the Naval Academy Band in Annapolis, MD, or one of our 11 fleet bands, you will have the opportunity to perform virtually every idiom from Sousa marches to MTV, from Broadway to symphonic wind ensemble, from contemporary rock to Big Band jazz, and from bluegrass to baroque.
Responsibilities
Perform on one or more designated instruments to provide ceremonial and entertainment services afloat and ashore; enhance Navy presence and coalition building initiatives; support Navy recruiting goals and objectives; inspire patriotism; elevate esprit de corps; enhance retention and pride in the naval service; enhance community awareness and public relations; and provide services that project a positive United States and Navy image both at home and abroad; perform other music-related tasks as may be required in performance of the rating.
What to Expect
As a member of a Navy Band, your performances might include presidential inaugurations; parades down Main Street USA, or the Avenue des Champs Elysees in Paris; military ceremonies on the White House lawn or abroad carriers at sea; public shows and concerts as well as live radio and television broadcasts.
Work Environment
Musicians are assigned to one of our Navy Bands located throughout the continental United States, Hawaii, Japan, and Italy. Musicians may work outdoors or indoors, ashore or aboard ship, with daily schedules varying greatly. Their work is done alone and with others, and is primarily creative.
Training & Advancement
Training Methods: Concert Band, Marching Band, Stage Band, and small specialty ensembles. Subjects: Focus on instrumental performance, ear training, and the fundamentals of music theory. Additional topics include Jazz Ensemble, Concert Band, Drill Band, and Improvisation Contemporary Music Ensemble.
Entry Pathways (if applicable)
Enlist under a contract for mucician (MU) Fleet Sailors may volunteer and request conversion after screening and command endorsement.
Education Opportunities
Post 9/11 GI Bill United States Naval Community College degree programs and Naval Studies Certificate Navy College Program & Tuition Assistance (incl. NCPACE) USMAP Department of Labor apprenticeships Navy COOL funding for industry certifications/licenses MilGears (Powered by COOL) career planning tools; Navy COOL mobile apps.
Qualifications & Requirements
U.S. citizen or equivalent High school diploma or equivalent 17 years of age or older Physically able to perform construction tasks and operate tools/equipment safely Team‑oriented with strong work ethic and willingness to deploy as required
Pay & Benefits
Active Duty (Full-Time):
- Potential enlistment bonuses
- Health insurance
- Housing Stipend (BAH/BAS when eligible)
- Retirement plan (Blended Retirement System)
- Paid training
- College credit (ACE)
- 30 days paid vacation per year.
- Reserve (Part-Time):
- Drill pay (receive 4 days of basic pay for 2 days worked each drill weekend)
- Low-cost life insurance (up to $500,000)
- Health insurance options
- Travel opportunities
- Earn retirement points
- Retirement after 20 qualifying years.
Note: Role-specific incentives (e.g., Selective Reenlistment Bonus, loan repayment) may be available; speak with a recruiter.
Schedule/Service Commitment
N/A
How to Apply/Contact
Apply through a Navy Recruiter: visit navy.com and use “Find a Recruiter” to locate your nearest recruiting office.
Additional Notes/Disclaimers
One hundred seventy enlisted musicians, recruited from the finest music schools and professional musical organizations, perform over 270 public concerts and 1,300 ceremonies each year. In addition to their demanding performance and rehearsal schedules, band members are responsible for the daily administration of the organization, including operations, public affairs, a large music library, information systems and supply. As the Navy's musical ambassadors, band members maintain the highest standards of appearance, military bearing and physical fitness.
Bonus (optional)
In addition to income, Navy Sailors can plan for retirement through participation in the tax-deferred Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). They can also ensure their family’s well-being through Service Member’s Life Insurance (SLGI) policy of $500,000 for just $29/month, $100,000 for spouses and $10,000 for each child.
This job requires military service. The application is for a specific position within the Navy.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Retirement plan
Work Location: On the road
