Performers -- instrumentalists, vocalists, audio engineers -- fulfill their Air Force commitments as enlisted professionals. To be accepted, they must have a high school diploma (minimum requirement) and pass a live audition. Non-prior service applicants must enlist before their 40th birthday and pass the written and physical exams of the Air Force.
For musical requirements, see the Auditions page.
Conductors fulfill their Air Force commitments as commissioned officers. To be accepted, they must have at least a bachelor's degree in music, pass a live audition, and be qualified to be a commissioned officer of the United States Air Force. Applicants also must be a United States' citizen and must be under 40 years of age on the date of commissioning. For more information, see the Officer Audition page.
Only the best are selected to perform rock, jazz, and classical music with Air Force bands. To adapt to the demands of each unique performance situation, Air Force bands are exceptionally versatile. They are filled with highly experienced and talented musicians often selected from our nation's finest universities, conservatories, and colleges. Fully 80% of Air Force band officers possess a master's degree and 10% possess a doctorate. More than 90% of our enlisted musicians possess a bachelor's degree; 45% possess advanced graduate degrees.