The United States Coast Guard Band recruits only the most highly skilled musicians, and the audition process is extremely competitive. Coast Guard Band auditions occur only in anticipation of projected vacancies. Openings are announced on the Band's website and notices are sent to college and university music departments. Auditions are held at the United States Coast Guard Academy in historic New London, Connecticut. All applicants must travel to New London, Connecticut at their own expense.
The audition process is much like that of any major symphony orchestra, with a screened preliminary round to ensure anonymity, and musical requirements that include performance of a solo, concert band and orchestral excerpts, and sight reading. Candidates are advanced to a final round based on their demonstrated musical ability; the winner of that round must complete an interview and reference check in addition to meeting Coast Guard requirements. The Director makes the final decision to award the position to the winner(s) who then enlist in the United States Coast Guard for a period of four years at the rank of Musician First Class (E-6).
For further information contact:
Chief Musician Barrett Seals