Non-Commissioned Officer Military Music Bassist

Introductory text

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

The Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra is a professional military orchestra with 48 military musicians, supported by a technical service and staff. Its 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 as an orchestra and in ensembles, 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 on candidates for the position of:
Non-Commissioned Officer – Bassist with the Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra

Conditions
Before you start working with the Royal Netherlands 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). This will be followed by a further round where you will play in one or more concerts with the orchestra, and finally, you will have an 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
You can send your cover letter with CV to: Director Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra, Major A.J. Jongbloets, [email protected] by August 20, 2026.

For more information about the Royal Netherlands 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 position
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 will be 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 o'clock in the morning; during concerts for relations, you are busy all evenings. In addition, you will also play in smaller ensembles for official occasions of the Air Force and Defence staff.

Non-Commissioned Officer Military Music Bassist €3,300 ~ €3,650 salary 23 ~ 30 days off per year Get your driver's license for free Location: Rijen Non-Commissioned Officer Military Music Bassist What you will do These topics are frequently asked on the Defence Chatbot This is what you will receive from us 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 can't do today, you'll 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 after all? We will help you further. Together we will look for where you do fit within Defence.

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