MCO 1650.57A governs the Marine Corps Fleet Music Awards Program and its annual recognition of Marine musicians.
View MCO 1650.57A on armypubs.army.mil
It establishes annual awards for a Marine Musician of the Year and a Staff Noncommissioned Officer Musician of the Year. It sets nomination, selection board, package, submission deadline, and award presentation requirements.
The Board will select one sergeant or below as the “Marine Musician of the Year” and one SNCO as the “Staff Noncommissioned Officer Musician of the Year.” (paragraph 4)
The “Marine Musician of the Year” will be awarded a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the “Staff Noncommissioned Officer Musician of the Year” will be awarded a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. (paragraph 4)
Nomination package contents include: an appropriate level Summary of Action from the Marine’s Officer-in-Charge highlighting professional and personal achievements during the calendar year for which the nomination is submitted; a current Basic Training Record (BTR) and Education Page; and an audio recording chosen at the Marine’s discretion showcasing the nominee’s musical abilities. (paragraph 4)
The audio recording may be excerpt based or a traditional solo and should be approximately 3-5 minutes in length. (paragraph 4)
While consideration may be given to abilities regarding composing, arranging, or recording, the primary focus of the Marine Corps Fleet Music Awards Program is MOS proficiency, as part of professional achievement. (paragraph 4)