Chief Musician Brandon May

Piano

Chief Musician Brandon May, from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, began his piano studies with renowned pianist Kirk Reese. He holds a Bachelor of Music in jazz piano performance from Temple University, where he studied with Terell Stafford, Ben Schacter, Bill Cunliffe, Mike Frank, and Tom Lawton.

May started his military career as a member of the Air Force Band of the Golden West. He was a featured soloist on their Jazz Band's album entitled “Foe Destroyer.” May deployed for three months entertaining troops and strengthening diplomatic ties in Southwest Asia. 

In 2016, May auditioned and was selected for assignment to the U.S. Naval Academy Band, where he reported following Veterans' training at RTC, Great Lakes. He performs on piano/keyboards in the Superintendent's Combo and Blues & Gold and on percussion in the marching band. He also serves as Career Information Program Manager, Command Assistant Urinalysis Program Coordinator, and Command Casualty Assistance Calls Officer watch-stander.

May's awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the Navy Good Conduct Medal (two awards), the Air Force Commendation Medal (two awards), the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal (two awards).