The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band
Horn
Apply before: August 24, 2026
Audition date(s): October 5, 2026
The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band provides the musical foundation for many of the nation’s most significant events, representing the United States with precision, tradition, and exceptional artistry. Comprising 79 musicians trained at the country's most prestigious music conservatories and universities, this highly visible ensemble performs daily memorial support in Arlington National Cemetery, wreath-laying ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, White House state arrivals, and other high-profile military and diplomatic functions throughout the National Capital Region.
Ceremonial duties are primarily outdoors and centered around daytime missions, with occasional evening or weekend requirements. While the ceremonial mission is central, musicians may also contribute across other performing ensembles of “Pershing’s Own,” including chamber recitals and featured solo appearances.
Audition Information
Auditions will be held at Brucker Hall, home of The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” at 400 McNair Road, Fort Myer, Virginia 22211-1306 on October 5th, 2026.
- All candidates have the choice of playing a recorded and/or live preliminary audition.
- Candidates who do not advance from the recorded preliminary round are still encouraged to attend the live preliminary audition on October 5th, 2026.
- For civilian candidates that advance from the regional audition or recorded preliminary round into the semi-finals, the U.S. Army will cover travel expenses (pending enlistment qualification and funding approval).
- The semi-final round, and any subsequent rounds, will take place on October 5th, 2026.
Audition Dates
Deadline to Submit Recorded Preliminary Audition
August 24th, 2026
Deadline to Apply for the Live Preliminary Audition
September 21st, 2026
Live Auditions
October 5th, 2026
Repertoire Lists
Live Audition Repertoire (.pdf)
Recorded Preliminary Audition Repertoire (.pdf)
Eligibility
All applicants must meet basic enlistment standards for The U.S. Army including:
- Age 17-42 at the time of the audition
- Currently hold U.S. Citizenship
- Meet height/weight standards
- Meet medical, moral, and physical requirements. If you have any preexisting medical conditions, recent surgeries, or criminal history, please consult with your local Army Recruiter prior to applying to confirm enlistment eligibility.
Applications
To apply for this vacancy and request the complete packet of audition materials, candidates must submit the following using the "Apply Now" button below:
- One-page résumé (.pdf) including your current e-mail address, home address, phone number, and birthdate.
- Current military applicants must also include (1) their Soldier Talent Profile or equivalent, (2) a Letter of Intent to Release from their Commander, and (3) their last two NCOERs (if applicable).
Contact the Auditions Coordinator
Applicants with questions or concerns regarding the U.S. ARMY CEREMONIAL BAND HORN VACANCY may contact Sergeant First Class Matthew Evans.
Benefits
Compensation
The annual starting salary for Staff Sergeant equates to $79,612 without dependents and $86,416 with dependents
Healthcare
Full medical and dental coverage
Paid Leave
30 days paid vacation annually
Retirement
The Blended Retirement System allows you to immediately begin contributing to a retirement account, in addition to being eligible for a pension after 20 years of active duty service.
Education
Earn full tuition for higher education through the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Also, tuition assistance is available for continuing education.
Military Rank
Members of “Pershing’s Own” are given the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) of 42S (forty two sierra), “Special Band Musician”. Personnel are promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6) two months after completion of Basic Combat Training.
Location
Permanent duty assignment to Fort Myer, VA, located near the heart of Washington, DC
Learn More About Army Benefits
goarmy.com/benefits
Eligibility
- All applicants must currently hold U.S. Citizenship
- Civilian applicants must be 42 years of age or younger at the time of the audition
- All applicants must meet the standard requirements for enlistment in the United States Army