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Job Role
Royal Marines Bugler
Job Role

Royal Marines Bugler

Lead your band on parade in one of the world’s most renowned military bands, at our most important ceremonial occasions.

Royal Marines Band ServiceMusicApprenticeships
  • £18,500 - £58,500
  • No qualifications
  • Royal Marines
  • Royal Marines Band Service
  • Rating level

At a glance

As a Bugler in the Royal Marines Band Service, you will be a key part of the Corps of Drums, learn to play the Bugle, and be front and centre at some of our most important ceremonial occasions.
A Royal Marine Bugler.
Since I started my training at the Royal Marines School of Music (RMSoM) I’ve been lucky enough to receive tuition from some of the most respected professors in the world.

Jo

Royal Marines Bugler

Role details

What you’ll do

As a Bugler in the Royal Marines Band Service, you’ll be front and centre at some of our most important ceremonial occasions, and lead your band when on parade. As a key part of the Corps of Drums, you’ll learn to play the Bugle, Herald Fanfare Trumpet, and Military Side Drum. In your distinctive white helmets, you’ll be representing the Royal Marines at all times, wherever you are in the world. It’s an honour that goes beyond music, as you perform vital military duties in support of 3 Commando Brigade.

Your role

  • Spend time at the Royal Marines School of Music (RMSoM), learning to play the Bb Bugle and Military Side Drum.
  • Perform as an individual, in small groups, as a Corps of Drums or marching in front of a Royal Marines Band whenever on parade.
  • Make a vital contribution to our nation’s defence diplomacy strategy, performing at military, ceremonial and corporate events on the world’s biggest stages.
  • Play an important role in the Royal Marines Band Service’s vital medical and logistical function, supporting the Royal Navy Medical Services and 3 Commando Brigade all over the world.
     

     

     

Pay & benefits

  • Salary of more than £15,900 as soon as you start Initial Military Training
  • Earn over £20,000 on completion of military training, potentially rising to over £52,836 as your career progresses
  • Professional training at the world-class Royal Marines School of Music (RMSoM)
  • 7 weeks of paid holiday every year
  • Free medical and dental care
  • Subsidised travel and accommodation
  • Excellent pension scheme
  • Adventurous training
     

Skills for life

Qualifications you'll gain

  • Opportunity to gain civilian qualification such as Guildhall/ABRSM grades/Diplomas
  • DAO Level 3 Diploma in Military Music
  • Professional examinations at key career landmarks often accredited or recognised by civilian industry

Skills you'll develop

  • The ability to perform in a team or as an individual, in a variety of musical venues
  • An eye for detail in both your musical performance and personal uniform and kit
  • A flexible and adaptable mindset
  • Pride in yourself and the service

Eligibility

  • Aged 16 to 32 when you start Basic Training
  • No qualifications are required for this role
  • You ideally need to be able to read music, and be either a competent drummer or bugle/brass player
  • Your ability and potential will be assessed during your audition
  • You must be a United Kingdom national, or Commonwealth citizen, or Dual National. Dual Nationality restrictions do apply
  • Minimum height of 145cm
  • A BMI between 18 and 28 (17 and 27 if under 18)
  • Be a competent swimmer

Skills & Interests

  • Playing a musical instrument 
  • Performing in public
  • Working as part of a team
  • A real sense of adventure 
     

Joining Process

From picking your role to starting on your first day, these are the steps you'll take to join as a rating.

Career Progression

From responsibilities to pay, find out where this role can take you.

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