DA Form 7764-5: Tuba AMPA Guide for Army Bands – If you’re a tuba player interested in joining a U.S. Army Band—whether Active Duty, Army National Guard, or Army Reserve—understanding DA Form 7764-5 is essential. This form officially records the Army Musician Proficiency Assessment (AMPA) specifically for tuba players (ASI 9F). It serves as the standardized audition tool to evaluate musical skills for enlistment, classification, or reenlistment into the Army Band Career Program (ABCP).
What Is DA Form 7764-5?
DA Form 7764-5 is the official U.S. Army document titled Army Musician Proficiency Assessment (AMPA) (TUBA). The proponent is the Commandant, U.S. Army School of Music (USASOM). It documents a performance-based evaluation of a musician’s technical ability, musicality, and readiness to perform the diverse repertoire required in Army bands, from ceremonial marches to concert band literature, commercial music, and more.
Download the official DA Form 7764-5 here:
https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/ARN20214_a7764_5_FINAL.pdf
This form is part of the DA Form 7764 series, each tailored to a specific instrument or skill set. Results recorded on this form are the only authorized record for tuba assessments.
Why the AMPA Matters for Army Bands?
Army bands perform a wide variety of music: marches, concert band pieces, jazz, commercial/pop, chamber music, and ceremonial duties. The AMPA ensures candidates meet the professional standards needed for these roles. It is the primary method for assessing skills for PMOS 42R (Army Musician).
Passing the AMPA is typically required before enlisting under programs like the Army Civilian Acquired Skills Program (ACASP) or for reclassification. A strong score demonstrates your readiness for service in one of the many Army bands across the U.S. and overseas.
Structure of the Tuba AMPA (DA Form 7764-5)
The assessment has two main performance parts, evaluated by a board using a detailed rubric. It is often video-recorded for review by USASOM.
Part 1: Prepared Music
- Perform at least three selections of contrasting styles/genres.
- Total performance time: Not to exceed 5 minutes.
- This showcases your technical and musical strengths. Choose pieces that highlight variety (e.g., classical, orchestral excerpts, brass ensemble, jazz, or other relevant styles). Scoring considers difficulty and execution.
Part 2: Quickly Prepared Music
- Music is provided approximately one day in advance.
- Perform two selections per category (typically six pieces total):
- Group A: Concert Band/Chamber Ensemble (one of each; no marches).
- Group B: Marches (one in simple time, one in compound time).
- Group C: Commercial and Swing (one of each).
- This tests sight-reading, quick learning, and adaptability.
Scoring Rubric (0-6 points per category, max 36 points total):
Evaluators score categories such as:
- Technique/Mechanics
- Musicality (Phrasing, Dynamics)
- Tone, Intonation, Range
- Style, Articulation, Note Shapes
- Time/Rhythm
- Music Preparation (primarily for Part 2)
Passing Score: Minimum 18 points overall (higher for some instruments like oboe/bassoon/voice). You must score at least 2 in every category—a 0 or 1 in any results in a NO-GO. Board scores must align closely.
Additional Skills: Opportunities exist to earn extra points for mission-enhancing abilities (e.g., doubling instruments, jazz improvisation, or other relevant skills), up to 2 points per category.
Full Range Expectations for Tuba: To maximize scores in Tone/Intonation/Range, demonstrate consistent tone from approximately four ledger lines below the bass clef staff up to middle C. You can still pass without reaching the absolute extremes.
How to Prepare for the Tuba AMPA?
- Select strong contrasting prepared pieces that you can perform musically and accurately.
- Practice quick preparation: Work on reading various styles, marches, and commercial charts under time pressure.
- Focus on fundamentals: Consistent tone across registers, clean articulation, intonation, and rhythmic precision.
- Review official guidance: Consult USASOM Regulation 350-70-4 for detailed instructions.
- Contact your local Army band or recruiter for packet examples, rubrics, and scheduling. Many bands (e.g., 101st Army Band, 246th Army Band) provide audition resources online.
Video AMPAs require specific preparation, including pre-filled form data, marked music, and commander validation.
Next Steps After the AMPA
Successful candidates proceed to enlistment processing, Basic Combat Training, and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at the U.S. Army School of Music in Virginia Beach, VA. Army bands offer unique opportunities to perform professionally while serving your country, with benefits like skill development, travel, and camaraderie.
Ready to audition? Visit the official U.S. Army Bands website or contact a recruiter/band unit to schedule your AMPA. Prepare thoroughly—your performance on DA Form 7764-5 can open the door to an exciting military music career.