Active Marine

The first sixteen weeks is spent in Phase 1 Training. Although the Band Service is a musical body, it is first and foremost part of a larger military organisation - the Royal Marines. For this reason the Initial Entry Term concentrates on physical fitness, soldiering and all things military.

Through periods spent in the gym and swimming pool you will become fitter than you have ever been - most new recruits underestimate how unfit they really are, but soon adapt. And as a professional musician on the road, you will need to maintain that fitness throughout your career. Through drill work you will learn to march correctly, before learning to march and play your instrument at the same time, definitely an acquired art. Through infantry and first aid training you will acquire the basic techniques needed to carry out the military duties which would be asked of the Band Service in times of war or conflict.

There will also be a certain amount of general study covering such subjects as military law, pay and conditions, current affairs, maths and English. Gradually you'll begin to look, feel and act like a member of the team. The training will seem strenuous, especially during the first 16 week term. But remember everyone around you is facing the same challenge and all RM Musicians/Buglers have undertaken the same training. After the 16 weeks of initial military training (phase 1), you will move to a 'House' organisation. You may even be given extra responsibilities if you show leadership potential.