Army Cadet Music
Music has long been a key part of the Army Cadets, offering cadets and adults the chance to develop their skills while representing the cadets at prestigious events in the UK and internationally. Whether you’re an experienced musician or a beginner, there is a place for you in one of our three music disciplines:
- Military Band: Brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments.
- Corps of Drums: Focused on the fife, drum, and bugle.
- Pipes & Drums: Featuring bagpipes, highland drum, bass drum and tenor drum.
Each discipline has a unique role, history, and training pathway, and all offer cadets a structured syllabus, performance opportunities, and qualifications. Alongside gaining the technical ability to play an instrument, music improves commitment, discipline and self-esteem.
Twice a year (at Easter and in the October half term), Army Cadet musical units gather for a week-long music camp in which over 500 cadets and cadet force adult volunteers (CFAVs) at all levels play and learn together, culminating in a series of examinations and performances in one of the largest musical ensembles in the country.
At the highest levels of achievement, cadets are selected to be the National Drum Major for Pipes and Drums, Corps of Drums and a National Bandmaster.
These camps receive support from experts across the Regular Army and Reserve bands, Corps of Drums and Pipe Bands, and they are on hand to train adults, as well as cadets.
Cadets who play music can look forward to an exciting calendar of events in the UK and beyond. We’ve seen cadets enjoy trips across Europe and as far as the USA and China.
It’s not just camaraderie and a well-stamped passport that you can gain. Cadet musicians follow a structured training program that allows them to gain recognised qualifications, including:
- BTEC First Diploma in Music (equivalent to one GCSE at A*-C)
- ABRSM music qualifications
- SQA Pipes and Drums awards
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (musical activities can contribute to DofE sections)
Military Bands, Corps of Drums and Pipe Bands, are highly sought after for military tattoos, parades, and ceremonial events throughout the year. Cadet buglers play a vital role in their local communities, particularly on Remembrance Sunday, where their performances hold deep significance.
Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a complete beginner, both cadets and adults are welcome to be part of this proud musical tradition, find a detachment and tick “only show detachments that offer music” to get started.
Are you up for the challenge?
Ready to make music with the Army Cadets? Whether you’re just starting out or already play, there’s a place for you. Join a band, gain qualifications, perform, and be part of something inspiring. Start your journey today
Music Gallery
Explore the rich musical tradition of the Army Cadets in our Music Gallery. From Military Bands to Pipes & Drums, discover how cadets develop skills, perform at top events, and travel the world. Whether you’re a listener or player, enjoy the sights and sounds that make our music truly special.
CLICK ANY IMAGE BELOW TO VIEW LARGER
