5500 musician

The Marine Corps Basic Musician MOS is 5500. Musicians in the Marine Corps play instruments or sing in a band for concerts, parades, and other official functions. They may also perform on stage, for broadcasting, or for recording. To qualify for the Musician Enlistment Option Program (MEOP), recruits must audition and qualify for the music program. Once qualified, they must pass the Initial Strength Test (IST) or enter the Delayed Entry Program. Upon enlistment, new members are appointed to the rank of Staff Sergeant (pay grade E-6). The average yearly pay for a U.S. Marine Corps musician is approximately $55,510, which is 15% above the national average.