The only military music training facility in the U.S., the Naval School of Music (NAVSOM), marked a major milestone with the completion of a major renovation and rehearsal annex Oct. 25 during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS).

The $15 million project began January 2013 and was completed three years later in January.

The speakers for this significant event were Capt. Kenneth Collins, U.S. Navy Band commanding officer, and Army Col. Neal F. McIntyre, chief of Army Music.

"This incredible renovation provides our musicians a world-class facility in which to hone their skills so they can serve each of our services to the fullest potential," Collins began. "The building holds a special place in the hearts of all Army, Navy, and Marine Corps musicians. It is the one place where we all gathered at some point in our careers ... and shared remarkably 'like' experiences."

Collins detailed the extraordinary quality of the students and staff who have attended NAVSOM, emphasizing the high training level achieved despite the past challenges of the facility. The joint project has resulted in the very successful unveiling of this cutting-edge training establishment.

"It was extremely satisfying to witness the ribbon-cutting ceremony in which all three services worked together in a grand effort to have McDonald Hall renovated into a modern training facility," stated Army Sgt. Maj. Shawn M. Firch, commandant of the Army School of Music. "It's absolutely awesome that such a great training facility will be available to train our great military musicians for generations to come."

This ceremony held a special significance as the date marked the 52nd anniversary of training in the current facility. Originally built in 1955 as a 80,000-square foot barracks, NAVSOM's building was stripped to bare cinder block and reconstructed with the unique needs of professional military musicians in mind -- to include nine rehearsal areas and more than 100 studios. The newly-renovated training facility contains an updated communication structure and contemporary studios for practice and lessons. The Rehearsal Annex, previously a Amphibious Assault Demonstration Facility, added five additional large rehearsal areas as well as office spaces and storage.

"The renovations that were completed at the School of Music, and especially the addition of the new rehearsal annex, will enhance the quality and effectiveness of our training for generations to come," from Army Lt. Col. Pulver, commandant of the U.S. Army School of Music. "This project was truly a team effort that wouldn't have been possible without the cooperation and partnership of all the services. This tremendous accomplishment reflects the dedication to excellence that our military musicians demonstrate daily."

The Naval School of Music is the only institution of its kind in the Department of Defense, and its graduates earn college credits upon completion of training. The Naval School of Music's mission is to provide basic to advanced levels of instruction to military musicians of the Navy and Marine Corps. Following basic training, Sailors and Marines attend MU "A" School to gain the musician designator (NOS/MOS) and ultimate assignment to a fleet or Field band.

During their career, military musicians may also be selected for advanced training where they have an opportunity to gain additional skills as sound technicians, unit leaders, arrangers, ceremonial band conductors, drum majors, and enlisted bandleaders.

The Naval School of Music plays a vital role in today's armed forces, and its graduates go on to become musical ambassadors on ships and stations throughout the world.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

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