Music, Masters and Military Service - The Reservist Doing It All

Royal Corps of Signals

17th June 2026 · 1 min read

Music, Masters and Military Service - The Reservist Doing It All

As Armed Forces Week begins, we're proud to recognise the incredible achievements of our Reservists. Musn Isabella Watson has balanced Army Reserve service with completing both a music degree and then a master's while also building her civilian career.

Musn Isabella Watson plays both flute and piccolo in the Band and is also a vocalist. During her time with the Army Reserve, she has balanced her military commitments with her academic studies, completing a music degree before recently finishing a Master's degree in Music Management and Marketing at University of York.

Her experience highlights the flexibility of Army Reserve service, showing that students can develop valuable skills, gain additional income, and pursue their educational goals while serving.

Alongside her Reserve commitments, Isabella is currently working as a sales consultant for Paul Smith and is in the process of applying to become an officer in the Royal Air Force.

Recently, Isabella became the inaugural recipient of the Tom Milford Cup, a new annual award presented by Captain Tom Milford at his dine-out on 30 May. The award recognises a Band member who has gone above and beyond musically, as selected by the Director of Music. Isabella was chosen as the first-ever recipient in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the Band.

She has also taken full advantage of the opportunities available through the Army Reserve. In January, she participated in an Adventurous Training exercise with 37 Signal Regiment, further demonstrating her commitment to personal development both within and beyond music.

Through her achievements in music, education, military service and professional life, Isabella exemplifies the wide-ranging opportunities available to Army Reservists and the benefits of balancing service with study and career development.

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