Royal Marines Bugler

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, the joining process is as follows:

• Submit an application

  Once you’ve registered your interest and have satisfied the basic eligibility criteria, you will be sent an online application form

• Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA)

  You’ll be tested on: Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Work Rate, Spatial Reasoning, Electrical Comprehension and Mechanical Comprehension.
  To prepare, you can practise the DAA

• Interview

  A formal interview to talk through your suitability for the role

• Medical and eye tests

  These are quite comprehensive and must be completed by one of our Ministry of Defence-approved doctors

• Audition and Test

  The audition process includes being evaluated by world-class civilian Professors, interviewed by the Director of Music Training and assessed for your level of physical fitness as well as musical potential. Post-audition you may be given the opportunity to learn a new instrument.

First and foremost, the Royal Marines Band Service is military unit, so you’ll spend your first few months learning all of the practical skills you need to be an effective member of the wider Royal Marines team.

This phase of training concentrates on physical fitness and basic soldiering. You’ll need to have a high level of fitness to cope with your performance workload, as well as your military role.

Our immaculate drill is something that makes us unique, so you’ll also spend plenty of time learning how to march correctly and play your instrument at the same time. 

There's also a swimming test, so if you can't swim, make sure you learn by the time you join us.

After your initial military training you’ll spend time at the RMSoM developing your skills and mastering one or more instruments.

You’ll have a civilian professor of music, who will have considerable musical experience, for each instrument you’re learning. You’ll have individual weekly lessons with them, and your own practice room to work on your technique.

You’ll also be in the capable hands of a Band Service Instructor. They’ll be an experienced player of the instrument you’re learning, and will keep an eye on your progress, advising on technique and helping to sort out any problems.

It’s intensive training, but it’s also a fantastic way to develop your musical skills quickly and correctly. By the end of it, you’ll be ready to join one of the five bands as a fully trained Bugler.