17/06/2026
MEET THE SCREAM TEAM
Olaf Ritman - The Netherlands
Olaf's musical career started very early learning cornet, piano, and showing keen interest in composing and conducting from the age of 10. At 22 he entered into leadership of his local Salvation Army band, which then paved the way for a 15 year tenure as bandmaster for the Amsterdam Staff Band after previously joining on solo cornet from 2000 and serving as deputy bandmaster from 2006. Olaf has led the ASB in various engagements from local corps in the Netherlands to international trips through Europe and North America - including concerts at London's Royal Albert Hall. In recent years Olaf conducts Brassband Kunst naar Kracht who perform at a high competitive level through regular concerts, festivals, and participation in the Dutch Brass Band Championships and the World Music Contest. Olaf has had a number of his compositions published by the Salvation Army in brass band journals in the UK, USA and Canada - many of these works also recorded by several bands internationally. He has also been in demand as a guest conductor and teacher at various international events in addition to his continuing service as bandmaster and pianist at his local SA church. In his day to day life, Olaf is the Chief Technology Officer for a Managed Service Provider in The Netherlands.
It is our huge privilege to welcome Olaf to the Scream Team of writers as we put the finishing touches on one of his works to be released in the Midi Band Series very soon!
