Skip to content
Careers / Services / Royal Marines
Royal Marines Band Service
Careers / Services / Royal Marines

Royal Marines Band Service

By joining the world-famous Royal Marines Band Service you’ll become part of the most versatile military music unit.

Want to know more about the Royal Marines Band Service?

tell me more
Pictured in the Procession are members of the Royal Marine Band on the Mall.The UK Armed Forces have played a part in the procession for Her Majesty The Queen’s funeral and committal service, in London and Windsor.

World-renowned

Employed all over the world, you’ll find yourself performing at National and International events, major sporting fixtures, and esteemed concert venues.

All musicians play two – or more – instruments, giving the band the versatility to perform in full or as smaller ensembles. This includes string quartets, naval jazz groups, and even rock bands!

Many band members have a secondary specialisation, from arrangement and composition to lighting and sound, or merchandising, photography, and videography.

The Royal Marines School of Music returned to the Guildhall in Portsmouth for their biggest and most popular concert of the year, with the concert band, big band, Corps of Drums and the spectacular ceremony of Beating Retreat.

No two days are alike

Experience the excitement as part of the Royal Marines Band. From thrilling performances at global events to fulfilling operational roles alongside the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, every day holds unique adventures.

When called on, instruments are set aside to provide military support on operations. Whether part of a medical team on board a casualty-receiving facility, or supporting 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines, the military role is just as vital as the musical one.

Band Master for HM Royal Marines Band Service from HMS Collingwood. Armed Forces personnel, including the Royal Navy’s COMPASS network, Army LGBTQ+, and Shout Civil Service LGBTQ+ and veterans attended Brighton Pride to celebrate 30 years of pride events.

Professional training

You’ll train you to reach our high, professional standards. You’ll spend some time at the Royal Marines School of Music (RMSoM), honing your skills under the guidance of world-renowned tutors. Upon completion of your training, you’ll be ready to perform at the highest and most professional level every day – whether you’re playing music or supporting your Royal Navy & Royal Marines colleagues on operations.

The learning doesn’t need to stop there either, as Musicians can also study for a fully-funded BMus (Honours) degree.

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

Prestigious performances

Members of the Royal Marines Band Service are highly-trained, skilled individuals who demonstrate their proficiency and professionalism on the world stage. Standards are high, and opportunities are immense. Few professional musicians have the chance to play to an audience of thousands, or Royalty, but you’ll do it all in a day’s work. There will even be occasions when you’re front and centre at nationally broadcast events, like the Remembrance Day Parade at the London Cenotaph.

Royal Marines Band at the Mountbatten festival 2023.
Listen to the Royal marines band

The Mountbatten Festival of Music 2023

13:20 - May 2023 - Royal Albert Hall
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.
Royal Marine Band Member Musician Liam O'Neill who's secondary role is working in surgery as a runner and a spare pair of hands.

About you

You’ll be tough and joining the Royal Marines Band Service requires you to pass the same training as a Royal Marines Commando.

Even thinking about joining the Royal Marines makes you different. It sets you apart. To get a step further, you’ll need to be truly special; dig deeper than most, and go further than others can even imagine.

Do that and you’ll be able to take your place in a world-class amphibious fighting force and the world’s most renowned military band.

Royal Marines massed bands perform beating retreat in London. The massed bands end the evening by marching up the mall.

What you’ll do

There are two different roles available within the Royal Marines Band Service: Bugler and Musician.

As a Royal Marines Bugler you’ll specialise in playing the Bugle, Military Side Drum and Herald Trumpet, performing stunning world-renowned displays and leading your Band out on parade.

As a Royal Marines Musician, you’ll use your professional skills in a variety of performance environments, including our annual concert series at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

You’ll be the public face of the Royal Navy, so do what you love and join us on the world stage.

Featured roles

Got a question?

Need help finding your ideal role?
Our virtual recruiter is available to answer your questions 24 hours a day

Apply now

Do you have what it takes to wear the coveted green beret?

Not ready to apply?

Register your interest today and we’ll be in touch to help you find your fit.