Musician Enlistment Option Program

FIND GREATER PURPOSE IN YOUR PASSION

 

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.

 

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A CALLING HEARD AROUND THE WORLD

The Musician Enlistment Option Program (MEOP) gives young men and women the opportunity to fight and win our Nation’s battles while pursuing their passion for music. Like all Enlisted Marines, qualified MEOP prospects must complete Marine Corps Recruit Training and all requirements of earning the Marine title.

A MUSICAL TRADITION. A WARRIOR LEGACY.

Instrumentalists and vocalists who answer the calling to become a Marine have the opportunity to enlist through the Musician Enlistment Option Program (MEOP). Performing throughout the continental United States and internationally, Marine musicians serve as musical ambassadors of the Marine Corps.

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MEOP Requirements

 

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.

 

MEOP CAREER PATHS

 

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.

 

The Audition Process

 

Each applicant is required to perform pre-selected audition excerpts. For more information regarding the audition process, including instrument-specific requirements, e-mail marinemusic@marines.usmc.mil or contact a recruiter using the link provided below.

 

MEOP Requirements

 

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.

 

MEOP CAREER PATHS

 

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.

 

The Audition Process

 

Each recruit is required to perform 11 pre-selected audition excerpts beyond expectation, demonstrate scale proficiency, and perform a selected piece to sight read.

Listen to 11 of the required audition excerpts, performed by members of Marine Corps bands.

A Calling Heard Around the World
What is Hip
Groovin’ Hard
Jazz Crimes
Pastime: A Salute to Baseball
Ruslan & Lyudilma Overture
Sound Off March
Sunset Parade
The Hymn
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
Willowcrest

REQUEST INFORMATION

Gain direct access to a Marine Recruiter who has fought alongside Marines and is prepared to show you how to become one.

CONTACT A RECRUITER

FAQs

One doesn't consider an endeavor of this magnitude without having questions. Here are some of the most common.

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