Explore Careers

Musicians

Explore Careers

Musicians

Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Marines logo
  • Navy logo
  • Air Force logo
  • Space Force logo
  • Coast Guard logo

What do Musicians do in the Military?

Musicians in the Military perform for members of their own service branch and to engage the public.

Where do Musicians work?

Musicians play indoors in theaters, concert halls, and at dances; outdoors at parades and open-air concerts. They also travel regularly.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$95,210

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$28,240 - $279,964

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Musicians gain in the Military?

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. Training length varies depending on musical specialty. Musicians in the Military will gain skills through regular rehearsals, individual practice, and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Music theory
  • Group instrumental techniques
  • Individual instrumental fundamentals
  • Sight-reading musical scores
  • Dance band techniques
  • Sight singing and ear training
  • Percussion techniques

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

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.

What skills help Musicians succeed?

  • Ability to play more than one instrument
  • Ability to sing
  • Poise when performing in public

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Audio and Video Technicians
  • Musicians and Singers
  • Music Directors and Composers
  • Art, Drama and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
  • Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners
  • Motion Picture Projectionists
  • Film and Video Editors
  • Lighting Technicians

Interested? Take Your Next Step!