Phase 1

Initial Training (Phase 1) is conducted at the Army Training Regiment, Pirbright and lasts for 14 weeks.

The training is designed to give entrants the basic military skills to undertake duties required of a soldier and to fully prepare them for further stages of training. 

Phase 1 training will consist of the following elements:

• Skill at Arms (weapon handling and marksmanship principles)
• Fieldcraft (putting into practice what you have learnt)
• First Aid
• CBRN (chemical, biological, radioactive and nuclear defence training)
• Physical training
• Adventure training
• Education
• Sport

A quote for Phase 1 training by Musn Dean Nixon:
"In phase 1 training, I was taught not only to be physically robust but mentally strong, which has prepared me well for phase 2 training and hopefully a long career in Army Music"

Phase 2

Phase 2 training (Foundation Course) for all Corps of Army Music personnel, is held at The Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall.

The training can last from 3 to 12 months, dependant on abilities.

The aim of the training is to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to enable trainees to take their place amongst the ranks of one of the Army’s Regular Army bands.  Acknowledging prior learning and experiences, the training is designed to allow the trainees to develop as quickly as possible.

Phase 2 training will consist of the following elements:

• Instrumental performance and technique
• Marching band
• General musicianship
• Music theory
• Aural perception
• Orchestration

Trainees will continue to receive both physical and military instruction throughout their course.

There will be an opportunity for all trainees to perform both as a soloist and as a sectional player during one of the various engagements held during their attendance on the Foundation Course. 

All instrumental and academic instruction is delivered by a highly dedicated and experienced team of professors, many of whom are key performers from top professional orchestras and ensembles form around the UK.