Irish Defence Forces - Flute & Piccolo The Irish Defence Forces School of Music is currently recruiting Flute & Piccolo players for all three Defence Forces military bands. Applications are open to all players who meet the requirements below.

Overview Applications are invited from musicians who currently have a minimum playing standard of ABRSM Grade 7, or equivalent, and who are interested in the challenging and varied musical life that a career in the Defence Forces School of Music offers.

Military Instrumentalists are full-time musicians whose primary role is to service the musical requirements of state and military ceremonial events. Defence Forces military bands also perform an immensely varied repertoire of music at concerts and community events throughout Ireland and abroad.

Candidates must be 18 years of age and less than 39 years of age on the closing date for receipt of applications, which for this competition is 21 June 2026. Candidates must also be eligible to work and reside in Ireland.

Salary and Benefits Starting salary, upon successful completion of 6 weeks Induction Training and 2-3 Star Training, is over €44,000 per annum. Defence Forces Instrumentalist pay scales can be found at military.ie. All members of the Defence Forces are entitled to the following:

• Free medical support and secondary private health care
• Access to dental care as well as pharmacy and physiotherapy services
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Pension
• Free gym and PT access
• Access to Refund of Fees Scheme, plus, opportunities for advancement as well as personal and professional development

Three Military Bands Our three military bands are located as follows: The Army No. 1 Band: Cathal Brugha Barracks, Rathmines, Dublin 6. Band 1 Brigade: Collins Barracks, Cork. Band 2 Brigade: Custume Barracks, Athlone.

Physical Fitness As well as being full-time musicians, personnel in the Defence Forces School of Music are also required to maintain standards of fitness. Personnel are provided with the time, resources and facilities to achieve and maintain the required level of fitness.

Selection Procedure Stage 1: Audition & Interview This stage of the competition will take the form of an audition, immediately followed by an interview. Stage 2: Medical, Physical Examination & Security Clearance Candidates will be required to undergo a detailed medical examination as well as security clearance.

Application A link to the terms & conditions, as well as the application form, can be found below.