Non-Commissioned Officer Military Music Clarinetist

Introductory text

Do you want to work at the intersection of Defense and society? The Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra seamlessly aligns with the ambition of the Air Force. As a professional pop and jazz orchestra, we are modern, technologically focused, and socially relevant. Our passion is music with a “groove”, our partners are DJs, hip-hop, soul, and pop artists. With light, sound, and video technology, we take our audience to the air and space, the field of work of the Air Force.

Our sound is our trademark. With music, we seek connection, within the military world and far beyond. The Dutch public knows the orchestra from concerts throughout the country, TV recordings, national commemorations, North Sea Jazz, and Formula 1. Internationally, we represent the Dutch armed forces in an innovative way, as recently in Canada and Curaçao.

We want to be innovative through collaboration. Between the musicians, our technical service, our staff, and, more broadly, within the Air Force and with society. The Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra does not employ ordinary players but team players. People with their own sound. Musicians who think along. Colleagues who are ready for a musical adventure.

The orchestra is looking for a: Clarinet Tutti – improvisation specialization is a plus

What you will do

As a clarinetist in the Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra, you are a musician at heart. You have your own sound, are a flexible player, and enjoy moving between different styles. You clearly have an affinity for playing styles within jazz and other “light” music genres. Moreover, you are willing to develop yourself further in this, with an open ear for your colleagues. You have successfully completed a (master's) clarinet degree at a conservatory (or play at an equivalent level).

Do you have convincing improvisation skills (jazz/light music)? Then you have an advantage. The position will then have a slightly soloistic character. This means that you will occasionally play a solo within the orchestra.

Conditions

Before you start working for the Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra, you will complete a basic military training at the Royal Air and Training Center (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 second half of 2027.

The orchestra is an inclusive and diverse work environment where contributing ideas is valued. Do you have (artistic) ideas? Do you enjoy playing in different ensembles? Can you arrange? Make yourself heard!

Where you will work

Application procedure

• Pre-selection based on your submitted application;
• an audition with two rounds on January 13 and 14, 2027;
• an interview;
• possibly a short trial in a few projects of the orchestra;
• you meet the medical, physical, and psychological requirements of the Ministry of Defence.

Interested?

Your cover letter with curriculum vitae can be sent by November 30, 2026, to:

Director Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra, Major A.J. Jongbloets [email protected]

For more information about the Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra and this position, you can send an email to [email protected] or contact the section leader of the clarinet section, Remco van Viersen, via [email protected].

Non-Commissioned Officer Military Music Clarinetist €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 Clarinetist What you will do These topics are frequently asked on the Defense Chatbot What you will receive 5 items This is you

Maybe you hesitate. We don't. We see not only who you are now but also who you can become. What you can't 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 Defense, 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 at where you do fit within Defense.

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