Members of the PHS Music Ensemble are volunteer musicians that devote time and dedication to provide the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps esprit de corps and exemplary officership through the powerful gift of music.

Unlike most uniformed services where appointment to the branch's musician corps is the principal duty assignment, members of the PHS Music Ensemble participate in the Music Ensemble in addition to their regularly assigned duties.

Membership in the Music Ensemble calls for particular dedication to the USPHS Commissioned Corps, which results in a highly rewarding experience to those who accept the challenge.

Basic Membership Requirements

• USPHS Commissioned Corps commissioned officer (active, reserve, inactive reserve, retired)
• Basic Level of Readiness status

Probationary Membership

• Purpose:
  • Evaluation of the officer's ability to commit to the rigor of Ensemble activity and appropriateness for Active Membership
• Eligibility:
  • Successfully meeting Basic Membership requirements
  • Demonstration of acceptable performance proficiency and technique in vocal and/or instrumental performance
  • Willingness and ability to attend at minimum, 50% of scheduled rehearsals
    • (Field membership candidates: Practice 3 hours/month)
  • Willingness and ability to attend at minimum, 25% of performances
    • (Field membership candidates: Requirement waived)
  • Supervisory approval to participate in Ensemble activities
• Duration:
  • Months 1-6 of service in the Ensemble

Active Membership

• Eligibility:
  • Successful completion of Probationary Membership period
  • Letter of Appointment from the Office of the Surgeon General (OSG)
  • Demonstrates musical proficiency commensurate with Ensemble needs as determined by the Group leader (GL)
  • Attends at minimum, 50% of scheduled rehearsals
  • Attends at minimum, a determined percentage of performances
    • Chamber group: 35% of performances
    • Choral group: 25% of performances
    • Winds group: 35% of performances
    • Field members: Average 2 out of 4 COA Conference performances
  • Maintains up-to-date collection of sheet music and required supplies
  • Maintains and submits rehearsal and performance records as specified
  • Possession of all required performance uniforms
  • Complies with all Force Readiness Standards (Active Duty officers)
• Duration:
  • Renewable 5-year term

If you are interested on receiving more information on becoming an esteemed member of one of the Music Ensemble groups in Washington DC, Butner NC, Atlanta GA, or as a "field member," please approach an Ensemble member or email us at membership"at"phsensemble.org