Marine Corps Musicians fight for our Nation while continuing to pursue their passion for music in the Musician Enlistment Option Program. As musical ambassadors for our Nation, MEOP presents the opportunity to become a Marine and fight to advance our Nation’s ideals on the world’s stage. Here is where you will learn how to create a harmony of determination, resiliency, and talent as a Marine Musician.

To qualify for the MEOP, recruits must first audition and qualify for the music program. Once qualified, your recruiter will prepare you for recruit training, either by passing the Initial Strength Test (IST) or entering the Delayed Entry Program and passing the IST at a later date.

Every MEOP recruit attends the Corps' 13-week recruit training and, upon graduation, attends the Naval School of Music for advanced instrumental and academic training.

As a Marine Corps musician, you’ll have the opportunity to serve with one of the 10 renowned Marine Corps bands throughout the world. Leadership roles within the bands include Bandmasters, Small Ensemble Leaders, Enlisted Conductors, Drum Majors, and Instrument Repair Technicians. Also available is the opportunity to be a part of The Commandant’s Own Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, based in Washington, D.C.