National Band Association
National Band Association
Outstanding Military Musician Award John Philip Sousa Foundation
John Philip Sousa Foundation

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates for the Colonel Finley R. Hamilton Outstanding Military Musician Award must:

  • be in the U.S. Armed Forces serving in a military band.
  • be in the grade of E-4 to E-6 at the time of nomination.
  • be an outstanding musician demonstrating excellence in both solo and ensemble performance. Or, be in a music-support role demonstrating outstanding technical skill and value to the unit and mission.
  • display exceptional leadership qualities.
  • display great potential for future outstanding service.



U.S. Army
U.S. Marine Corps
U.S. Navy
U.S. Air Force
U.S. Coast Guard
U.S. Army Bands