42R Army Bandperson

About the role

Join the Army National Guard as a Bandperson and turn your passion for music into a career. Perform in diverse environments—from ceremonial and jazz bands to small ensembles—specializing in one or more instruments such as tuba, trombone, euphonium, bassoon, electric bass guitar, saxophone, flute, piccolo, oboe, clarinet, French horn, percussion, cornet, trumpet, guitar, or keyboard.

Responsibilities

• Perform in various musical styles, including marching band, ceremonial band, concert band, classical, jazz, ethnic, and popular music compositions.
• Play a musical instrument in ensembles ranging from solo performances to full concert bands.
• Tune an instrument to a given pitch.
• Transpose moderately easy music.

Skills You’ll Learn

• Private instrumental instruction.
• Music theory and sight singing.
• Ear training and group instrumental techniques.
• Percussion techniques.

Helpful Skills

• Proficiency as an instrumentalist.
• Understanding of music theory and harmony.
• Ability to perform with poise.
• Capability to play more than one instrument.

Career Opportunities

Hone your skills, collaborate with other musicians, and prepare for a career performing with professional orchestras, bands, choral groups, nightclubs, concert halls, theaters, and recording studios.

Training

Receive paid training while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance. Training includes 10 weeks of Basic Training (focusing on Soldiering skills) and up to 23 weeks of Advanced Individual Training, with duration varying based on instrumental proficiency.

Benefits

• Paid training and a monthly paycheck.
• Montgomery GI Bill and federal/state tuition assistance.
• Retirement benefits for part-time service.
• Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage).
• 401(k)-type savings plan.
• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000 for existing loans).
• Health care benefits.
• VA home loans.
• Bonuses, if applicable.

Most non-prior service candidates earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change.

Requirements

• Military enlistment in the Army National Guard.
• Must be at least a junior in high school, or hold a high school diploma or GED certificate.
• Must be between the ages of 17 and 35.
• Must pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards.
• Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details).

Programs and benefits are subject to change. Actual MOS assignment may depend on availability.