Non-Commissioned Officer Military Music Bassist

Introductory Text

The Air Force is more than just flying. The Royal Air Force Orchestra contributes professionally to the public presentation of the Royal Air Force. The orchestra is one of only two professional light music orchestras in the Netherlands and enjoys international prestige.

The Royal Air Force Orchestra is a professional military orchestra with 48 military musicians, supported by a technical service and staff. The main task is to support military ceremonies. In addition, the orchestra gives concerts for relations at home and abroad.
All musicians master a wide range of musical styles and perform for diverse audiences, both in orchestral and ensemble settings, often in collaboration with guest artists.

The orchestra is looking for a:

BASSIST (bass guitar & double bass)

In connection with this vacancy, we are calling for candidates for the position of:
Non-Commissioned Officer – Bassist with the Royal Air Force Orchestra

Conditions
Before you start working with the Royal Air Force Orchestra, you will follow military training at the Royal Air Education and Training Centre (RAETC) in Woensdrecht. This training is fully reimbursed by the Air Force. As soon as you start your training, you will receive a salary.
The training starts in the spring of 2027.

Application Procedure
The selection procedure consists of an audition together with the rhythm section on Wednesday, September 23 (with a possible second round on Friday, September 25). Afterward, a follow-up round will take place where you will play with the orchestra in one or more concerts, and finally, you will have a job interview. A pre-selection will take place based on your curriculum vitae and cover letter.

Furthermore, you must meet the medical, physical, and psychological requirements of the Ministry of Defence.

Your response
Your cover letter with CV can be addressed to: Directorate Royal Air Force Orchestra, Major A.J. Jongbloets,
[email protected] by August 20, 2026.

For more information about the Royal Air Force Orchestra and this position, you can send an email to [email protected] or contact guitarist Ruud Peeters via [email protected]

What you will do

The function
Playing in an orchestra is teamwork. Just as an F-35 pilot works together with technicians and air traffic controllers, you will work together with your colleagues, conductors, sound and light technicians. The repertoire is broad, the level is high. You are involved with music full-time.
Are you looking for a nine-to-five job? Then this is not for you. Because you will not encounter a normal workday here. On rehearsal days, for example, you start at ten in the morning; during concerts for relations, you are busy all evenings. In addition, you also play in smaller ensembles for official occasions of the Air Force and Defence staff.

Non-Commissioned Officer Military Music Bassist €3,400 ~ €4,250 salary 23 ~ 30 days off per year Obtain your driver's license for free Location: Rijen Non-Commissioned Officer Military Music Bassist What you will do These topics are frequently asked at the Defence Chatbot What you will receive 5 items This is you

Maybe you're hesitating. We are not. We see not only who you are now but also who you can become. What you cannot do today, you will learn tomorrow. With good education, training, guidance, and a team that stands behind you.

Take the step How do I prepare?

Don't worry, we believe in you. At Defence, you will receive everything you need to grow: good education, training, coaching, and a team that stands behind you. If it doesn't work out, we will help you further. Together, we will look for where you do belong within Defence.

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Do you have more questions about this vacancy? We are happy to help you.

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