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Royal Marines Band Service Other Ranks

Royal Marines Band Service Other Ranks

Become part of one of the world’s most renowned military bands, combining military duties with a professional music career.

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As part of your application process, we’ll help you find the most suitable role based on your skills and experience.

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At a glance

You’ll be a part of the world’s most versatile military music organisation. You’ll join talented musicians who can perform in every musical combination, from a small jazz group to a full orchestra.

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.

James

Royal Marines Band Service Professional

What you can do

Profession details

Joining the Royal Navy as a Royal Marines Band Service member means traveling the world to perform with the best. You’ll find yourself performing at National and International events, major sporting fixtures, and prestigious concert venues around the world. You’ll also take on operational work, alongside the rest of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. No two days are ever the same, but why would you want them to be? Whatever your instrument, you’ll represent the Royal Navy on the world stage and do what you love. 

  • Spend time at the Royal Marines School of Music (RMSoM), learning your craft and mastering the full range of musical styles that make up our repertoire.
  • Share the stage with the team of like-minded, talented musicians across a wide variety of styles; from string quartets and jazz ensembles to marching bands and full symphonic wind bands.
  • Make a vital contribution to our nation’s defence diplomacy strategy performing at military, ceremonial and social 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 and UK Commando Force all over the world.
  • A starting salary of at least £26,334, with a potential of rising to over £62,000 as your career progresses.
  • Professional training at the world-class RMSoM
  • 6 weeks of paid holiday every year
  • Free medical and dental care
  • Subsidised travel and accommodation
  • Excellent pension scheme
  • Adventurous training

Skills you'll develop

  • The ability to perform in a team or as an individual, in a variety of musical combinations
  • Perform a wide range of musical styles; from Pop to Classical
  • 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

Qualifications you'll gain

  • Opportunity to gain civilian qualification such as ABRSM grades/Diplomas
  • DAO Level 3 Diploma in Military Music
  • Professional examinations at key career landmarks often accredited or recognised by civilian industry
  • The opportunity to study Bachelor of Music degree (fully-funded)
  • You'll need to be aged between 16 to 32 (You can start your application from 15 years and 9 months old however you must be at least 16 years old on day of entry to basic training)
  • No qualifications are required for this role
  • You ideally need to be able to read music, and sing or play a brass, wind, string, piano or percussion instrument to a good standard (ABRSM Grade 5 as a minimum, Grade 7 for pianists)
  • 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
  • Playing a musical instrument 
  • Performing in public
  • Working as part of a team
  • A real sense of adventure 
     

Career Progression

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

Joining Process

From picking your profession to starting on your first day, these are the steps you'll take to join.

  • Register your interest
  • Complete your application
  • Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA)
  • Interview
  • Audition, Medical and Fitness Assessment

Register your interest

Royal Marines massed bands perform beating retreat in London. The massed bands of her Majesty’s Royal Marines march up to Horse Guards parade.

Find the right profession and entry level for you, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria, and register your interest online.

Once you’ve registered, you’ll receive an email with more details about your chosen profession, along with an invitation to speak with our friendly recruitment team about any questions or concerns you might have.

Start your application

Find your place in the Royal Navy. Make friends for life, learn new skills and experience the world.

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