Military Music Directors
Military Career
General Information
Description
Military music directors direct and conduct instrumental and vocal performances by musical groups, such as orchestras, bands, or choirs. They ensure that musicians play with one coherent sound, balancing the melody, timing, rhythm, and volume. They usually work in offices and band halls but may work outdoors when conducting or practicing for parades.
Explore this career outside the MilitaryWork Environment
Music directors usually work in offices and band halls. They may work outdoors when conducting or practicing for parades.
Workplace at a Glance
What you can expect to experience while on the job
- Responsibility
- Exposure to job hazards
- Physical activity
- Decision making
- Repetitiveness
- Level of competition
- Time pressure
Comparable Industries
- Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications
Military Outlook
Service Branches
Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Space ForceMilitary Status
- Officer
- Managerial/professional
- College degree required
Military Workforce
Music Directors in the Military
135
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$109,740
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$51,242 - $194,005
What makes up a Military salary?
Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.
They also offer:
- Housing allowances
- Subsistence allowances
- Special and incentive pays
- Cost-of-living allowances
- Hazardous-duty pay
- Bonuses
Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator
Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits
Education
Most Common Education Levels
People in this career achieve this level of education.
-
Master's degree 28%
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Bachelor's degree 24%
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Doctoral degree 20%
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Associate's degree 7%
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Some college 6%
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Less than high school 5%
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High school 3%
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Post baccalaureate 2%
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Post-master's certificate 1%
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Post-doctoral training 0%
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First professional degree 0%
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Post-secondary certificate 0%
Military training
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Military music directors come to the job with knowledge of organization, mission, and capabilities of military bands, as well as a mastery of music theory. Job training for music directors primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include: Band arranging and conductingConcert and marching band styles and techniquesBand administration and management
Read MoreSkills at a Glance
Skills helpful in this career
- Verbal skills
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Equipment operation & maintenance
- Math & science skills
- Technology design & control
- Leadership
Related College Majors
Select major to see colleges that offer it
Knowledge
- Fine Arts
- English Language
- Education and Training
- Computers and Electronics
- Administrative
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