Bugle/Trumpet
– Annual salary $84,008-$96,356 upon promotion to Staff Sergeant (accelerated promotion via Army Civilian Acquired Skills Program)
– Full military benefits (medical/dental/retirement plans)
– 30 days paid vacation yearly
– Post 9/11 GI Bill and Tuition Assistance
– Stabilized duty assignment at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York
Audition packets must include a resume with date of birth, cover letter, and high-quality audio recordings no more than six months old with the following music in this order (separate files for each excerpt preferred):
- Charlier Etude #4, entire etude
- Official West Point March, pick up to m.72 to end of excerpt (with repeats)
- Mess Call
- Taps
Live round excerpts will be sent to selected candidates via email.
Your resume should include education, performance/work/teaching experience, and references.
Your cover letter should augment your resume, describing what additional skills you bring to the position beyond playing bugle. This might include skills in arts administration, arranging, audio mixing/engineering, other instrument/vocal proficiencies, marketing, computer skills (graphics/video editing/Microsoft Office/other), etc.
Your completed application can be submitted via the form at the bottom of this page.

The West Point Band is a U.S. Army premier band whose main duty is to perform for local, national, and international audiences in support of the West Point community, the U.S. Military Academy, and the U.S. Army.
Primary job responsibilities for buglers in the West Point Band’s Field Music Group, The Hellcats, include performing daily duty and flag calls, providing musical support for official military ceremonies, and supporting the Corps of Cadets at the United States Military Academy. The Hellcats are also frequently tasked with solo and small-group missions in and around West Point as well as throughout the New York City area and media markets.
Secondary duties related to the day-to-day functioning of the West Point Band will be assigned based on experience, knowledge, interest, and/or needs of the unit.
Questions about this job listing or music list should be directed to Staff Sgt. Gillian Huff: Gillian.Huff@westpoint.edu
Professional performance level; Bachelor of Music degree or higher preferred (not required). Ability to meet Army initial entry requirements and maintain a professional appearance. The hired candidate will be required to march in ceremonial formations and stand for prolonged periods of time. Must be a U.S. citizen or other qualified resident. Position requires at least a four-year service contract; candidate will be informed of acceptance prior to enlistment.
Upon accepting employment with the West Point Band, the hired candidate will be required to complete Army Basic Training.
Military Personnel
Military personnel must also submit their Soldier Record Brief (or equivalent) without photo, three years of performance evaluation reports, and a Commander’s Intent to Release memo.
Electronic submission
- Submit your application by filling out the form below and uploading the necessary documents and/or files.
- Only high-quality sound recordings will be accepted and evaluated.
- Separating files for each excerpt is permitted and preferred.
- Do not include identifying information in your recording file names.
- Upon submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email sent to the email you have provided.
If you encounter any issues submitting your application, please email: bandauditions@westpoint.edu
