DA Form 7764-4: Army Trombone AMPA Guide

DA Form 7764-4: Army Trombone AMPA Guide – If you’re pursuing a career as a U.S. Army musician (PMOS 42R) and play the trombone, mastering the DA Form 7764-4 — the official Army Musician Proficiency Assessment (AMPA) for trombone — is essential. This standardized audition evaluates your technical skills, musicality, and readiness for service in one of the Army’s premier bands.

The form, published by the U.S. Army School of Music (USASOM), serves as the sole authorized record for assessing trombone players seeking enlistment, reenlistment, or classification into the Army Band Career Program.

What Is DA Form 7764-4 and Why Does It Matter?

DA Form 7764-4 documents your performance in the Army Musician Proficiency Assessment (AMPA) specifically for trombone (ASI 9E). It replaced older audition methods and ensures consistency across all Army bands.

Key purposes include:

  • Determining technical qualification for Army bands.
  • Recording results for enlistment, initial classification, or reenlistment.
  • Providing a standardized rubric for fair evaluation by certified assessors.

The proponent is the Commandant, U.S. Army School of Music. Use it with USASOM Regulation 350-70-4.

Download the official form here: DA Form 7764-4 PDF.

Structure of the Trombone AMPA (DA Form 7764-4)

The assessment includes several parts, scored on a detailed rubric. Auditionees must score a minimum of “2” in each category; a “0” or “1” in any results in a NO-GO, regardless of total score.

Part 1: Prepared Music

  • Perform at least three selections of contrasting styles/genres.
  • Total performance time: No more than 5 minutes.
  • Examples of contrasting styles: Classical solos, orchestral excerpts, jazz (swing, be-bop, ballads), Latin, marches, brass quintet, concert band literature, or characteristic etudes. Avoid three similar classical pieces.
  • You may use tenor trombone, bass trombone, or a combination (as appropriate for the literature). Backing tracks are allowed for jazz/commercial if accompaniment-only.

Scored on five rubric categories (0-6 points each):

  • Technique/Mechanics (slide coordination, accuracy).
  • Musicality/Phrasing/Dynamics.
  • Tone/Intonation/Range (aim for consistent tone from low Eb to high Bb on tenor; broader for bass trombone).
  • Style/Articulation/Note Shapes.
  • Time/Rhythm.

Part 2: Quickly Prepared Music

  • Music provided 24 hours in advance.
  • Perform two selections per group (six total):
    • Group A: Concert Band/Chamber Ensemble (no marches).
    • Group B: Marches (one simple time, one compound time).
    • Group C: Commercial/Swing (horn section-style from rock, pop, funk, Latin, etc.).
  • Tenor or bass trombone only (specify in advance; no switching for this part). Expect tenor clef reading.

Scored solely on Music Preparation (ability to read and perform given material accurately under time constraints).

Ceremonial Music (Often Included)

Many versions reference performing the National Anthem, Army Song, and General’s March.

Additional Skills (Part 4 – Bonus Points)

Up to 2 points each (max 4–6 depending on version) for:

  • Doubles (other instruments).
  • Vocals.
  • Improvisation.

Maximum total score: 36 points. A minimum of 18 is typically required to pass (higher for some instruments like oboe/voice, but 18 is standard for trombone). Board members’ scores must align closely.

Scoring Rubric Overview

Evaluators use a 0–6 scale per category. Higher scores reflect excellent technique, musical expression, stylistic authenticity, and mission-ready performance. Difficulty of literature and overall accuracy heavily influence scoring.

How to Prepare for Success on the Trombone AMPA?

  1. Choose Challenging Yet Playable Music — Select pieces that showcase your strengths while demonstrating range, technique, and musical depth.
  2. Master Contrasting Styles — Balance classical precision with jazz feel, commercial groove, and march clarity.
  3. Practice Sight-Reading & Quick Prep — Simulate 24-hour turnaround with varied band excerpts.
  4. Focus on Fundamentals — Consistent tone across registers, clean slide technique, strong intonation, and rhythmic precision are non-negotiable.
  5. Review the Regulation — Study USASOM Regulation 350-70-4 for exact requirements and FAQs.
  6. Consider Video AMPA — For remote options, follow strict administrator and submission rules (music must accompany video with marked measures).

Pro Tip: Contact your local Army band or recruiter for specific guidance. Units like the 101st Army Band provide valuable audition resources.

Next Steps After Passing the AMPA

A passing score advances you in the enlistment or classification process. Successful candidates attend Basic Combat Training followed by Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at the U.S. Army School of Music in Virginia Beach, VA. Army bands offer unique opportunities to perform, travel, and serve as cultural ambassadors.

Official Resources

  • DA Form 7764-4 Download → Army Publishing Directorate.
  • USASOM Regulation 350-70-4 (AMPA details).
  • GoArmy.com Army Bands career page.
  • Local Army Band websites for audition contacts.

Preparing for the DA Form 7764-4 Trombone AMPA demonstrates the professionalism and skill Army bands demand. With focused practice on the required repertoire and rubric, you can showcase your talents and launch a rewarding military music career.