Canadian Forces Career Information
Do more with your MUSIC.
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Consider a career with the Canadian Forces.
Music and the military have a long and distinguished history. Almost as long as there have been armies, there have been musicians leading the way forward. Although the role of military musicians has changed considerably, they are still a vital and highly visible part of the Canadian Forces.
As a musician in the Canadian Forces, you will play a wide array of engagements and ceremonies ranging from intimate dinners and chamber concerts, to concert hall and stadium events, across Canada and around the world. Of course, top quality instruments and equipment as well as individual practice facilities are provided.
The Canadian Forces enrolls accomplished musicians, who often hold performance degrees or diplomas from Canada’s top colleges, conservatories and universities. Musicians with the Canadian Forces may perform as section instrumentalists, section leaders or soloists, and may also lead or conduct various ensembles, in a wide variety of musical styles:
- Concert bands
- Parade bands
- Jazz bands
- Chamber groups
- Show Bands
Do more with your CAREER.
All Canadian Forces bands are administered, managed and directed by the musicians. You are hired as a musician, but opportunities to explore and expand your music career are practically limitless:
- music composition and arrangement
- sound recording and production
- operations and band management
- musical direction
There are many opportunities for professional development throughout your career, from music and computer courses to language and management studies. You are paid your salary plus expenses during all courses and training.
Get more from your PROFESSION.
You have the freedom to concentrate on your music, with the security of a regular salary and generous benefits. What other gig can make this promise?
- Starting salary of $51,000 and increase to $58,700 on promotion
- 20 days paid annual vacation
- Comprehensive medical and dental care for you and your family
- Exceptional pension plan
- Exclusive group insurance and financial planning
- Family support services and benefits including parental leave
Are you ready for more?
Blind auditions are held around the country on a regular basis to select the best candidate for the available positions. Once you pass the audition and all the admission requirements are complete, you will be offered a job.
Canadian Forces musicians receive specialized training, including military band drill, band administration, and operations. After 6 months, once all required training is complete, you are promoted to the rank of Sergeant, which is the base working rank for musicians in the Regular Force.
There is a reason we are the largest employer of professional musicians in Canada.
If you would like to discuss a music career with the Canadian Forces, you can contact the Directorate of History and Heritage – Music at www.cmp-cpm.forces.gc.ca/dhh-dhp/musi/index-eng.asp or by calling 1-866-991-0422.
For additional information on the Canadian Forces in general, you can also contact a Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre, visit www.forces.ca or call 1-800-856-8488.
