The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Central Band was formed during the merger of the tri-service bands in 1994 to serve as the nation's premier military band. Staffed by professional military musicians, the SAF Central Band is often seen at the Istana, performing for Presidential events and all State Welcome Ceremonies for visiting foreign dignitaries.
Recognised as one of the most prolific military bands in the world, the SAF Central Band has performed in numerous countries including Brunei, Canada, France, Germany, India, Japan, Malaysia, People's Republic of China, the Russian Federation, Scotland, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States of America. In 2023, the SAF Central Band was deployed to perform in Arizona, in conjunction with the 30th anniversary celebrations of the Peace Carvin Il Detachment.
On the domestic front, the SAF Central Band is an integral part of the annual National Day Parade. Through its popular "Chamber Repertory" and "In Harmony" concerts at the Esplanade Concert Hall, the SAF Central Band has collaborated with many notable conductors, composers, and instrumentalists including Allan McMurray, Douglas Bostock, Evelyn Glennie, Michael J Colburn, Philip Sparke, James Barnes, Jan Van der Roost, Steven Mead, Thomas Leleu, and Tsung Yeh. In 2022, the SAF Central Band also launched the highly successful National Education School Outreach Programme, where the band promotes National Education and Commitment to Defence through music at various secondary and tertiary institutions.
As musical ambassadors of the SAF, the SAF Central Band fosters close relations with the local and international populace, furthers Singapore's defence policy space, and projects the SAF's professionalism through musical excellence.