Being A Flutist in the National Guard
SPC Angela McCuiston, 129th Army Band
www.MusicStrong.com
For the most comprehensive list of up-to-date information, please visit the official Army Bands website: www.bands.army.mil
What is the Mission of A National Guard Band and How is It Different From Active Duty?
The mission of a National Guard Band:
"Army Bands provide music throughout the spectrum of military operations to instill in our soldiers the will to fight and win, foster the support of our citizens, and promote our national interests at home and abroad."
National Guard Active Duty
Under control of the States Under control of Federal Government
One Guard Band per state Bands located at various bases
Part-time service: 1 weekend a month Full-time job
2 weeks in the summer (AT)
6 year minimum contract 3 year minimum contract
Smaller chance of deployment If in a Division Band, if the division gets deployed, so does the band.
Premier bands do not deploy, but may tour.
What Does A Drill Weekend Look Like?
· Doing music related activity almost every drill
· Re-qualify on weapons once per year
· PT test once per year
· Play at Conventions, schools, public concerts, parades, changes of command, armory dedications, troop deployments and returns, etc.
Perks of the Job
· Professional, top-of-the line instruments are given to you as well as supplies.
· Patriotism and national pride of serving your country while playing your instrument
· Repairs and maintenance are paid for by the Army.
· Health, Dental, Life Insurance
· Free or reduced cost License plates and tags (depending on state)
Do I Have To Go To Boot Camp?
• Yes. Basic Training is 9 weeks long followed by 6 months at the School of Music (this may be shortened based on skill)
• Basic Training teaches you how to be a soldier first and skilled in your MOS (Army bandsman) 2nd.
• You will be taught how to defend yourself, how to fire a semi-automatic weapon, how to throw grenades, proper military courtesies and protocol, drill and ceremony and all things military
Schooling
· The Army will help pay for school: (See the enclosed handouts for full details) up to Master's level graduate schools.
· Many certifications, licensing tests, etc. are eligible for reimbursement.
· This also includes various military schools that you may be sent to learn specific things, such as sound tech school, WLC (school to pass to be promoted to sergeant), etc. This is not out of pocket; you are put on orders and paid to go.
· GI Bill (MGIBSR – Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve) is money the military just GIVES you every month to use however you would like while you are in school. The rate for full time student is $349 a month as of October 1, 2011. www.gibill.va.gov
· Federal Tuition Assistance: up to $4500 a year
· Student Loan Repayment $20,000-65000
Insurance and Discounts
· Can travel anywhere in the US on military aircraft space available for free (Space A)
· Discounts: restaurants, shoe stores, clothing, automotive, housing, etc.
· Military insurance. Up to $400,000 life insurance for practically nothing. Tricare health insurance is available at a great rate: $88/for a single, $197/mo per couple. Eye and dental insurance available as well.
· Special rates on Automotive insurance and mortgages (USAA)
· Retirement benefits: after 20 years of service, you can retire with full benefits and begin drawing retirement pension at 60 yrs. old. If you get deployed, you may begin drawing retirement earlier. This means you draw a monthly check after you “make your 20”.
Eligibility
Eligibility requirements for all enlisted musicians (Active Duty, Reserves, or National Guard):
· 17-34 years old
· U.S. Citizen or permanent resident alien
· Have a high school diploma or equivalent
· Be in good health and physical condition
· Be in good moral standing
· Prior service members may require waiver
Preferred Education/Experience
While the criteria listed above are the only requirements to enlist in the Army Bands, musicians with the following experience are the most desirable and successful candidates for our positions:
· 10+ years of playing experience
· A bachelors degree in music performance or education
· Professional performance experience
The National Guard band is an excellent way to supplement your income while job searching or even while continuing with a full time job. It provides the security of a military band without the full time commitment.
As we know, there are very few positions with the Premier Bands available, but there are many more positions within the NG bands (my band has openings for 1 more and has needed flutists for years!). So if you are interested in military bands, give the National Guard bands a look as a viable option. You can keep auditioning for the premier bands and if you get in, it is easy to transfer to active duty, no problem, but in the meantime, why not get a steady paycheck playing your instrument for your country and getting retirement points?
I look forward to hearing from you and answering your questions.