Military Instrumentalists
Military Career
General Information
Description
Instrumentalists play one or more musical instruments in recital, in accompaniment, and as members of an orchestra, band, or other musical group. For instrumentalists, knowledge of musical conducting, rehearsal techniques, transpositions, and the ability to read printed music are mandatory. Instrumentalists may lead or direct other musicians.
Work Environment
Instrumentalists play indoors in theaters, concert halls, and at dances, and outdoors at parades and open-air concerts. They also travel regularly.
Military Outlook
Service Branches
Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Space ForceMilitary Status
- Enlisted
- Hands-on/specialized
- High school diploma required
Military Workforce
Instrumentalists in the Military
1,191
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$74,470
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$26,567 - $194,005
What makes up a Military salary?
Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.
They also offer:
- Housing allowances
- Subsistence allowances
- Special and incentive pays
- Cost-of-living allowances
- Hazardous-duty pay
- Bonuses
Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator
Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits
Education
Military training
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Although musicians must be musically proficient to enter the service, music training is given to new band members. Instrumentalists in the Military will gain skills through regular rehearsals, individual practice, and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include: Music theoryGroup instrumental techniquesIndividual instrumental fundamentalsSight-reading musical scores
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