06.07.2026 12:00
Bilge Deniz, one of the first 4 female students admitted to the National Defense University (NDU) Band Non-Commissioned Officer Vocational School since 1831, stated that they are pursuing both military and music education together, encouraging other female candidates who want to follow their dreams.
Bilge Deniz, one of the four female students who made history last year by being admitted to the National Defense University (MSU) Band Non-Commissioned Officer Vocational School, shared her evaluations about the training processes and the opportunities offered by the school. Stating that they feel proud to be the school's first female students, Deniz described their challenging yet enjoyable educational journey.
BOTH MILITARY DISCIPLINE AND ART EDUCATION
Deniz emphasized that by completing the associate degree program at the school, they will graduate ready for duty, maintaining discipline in both fields. She mentioned that in addition to military training, they take lessons in instruments, solfège, and music reading, and also receive repair training in the instrument maintenance and repair department. Deniz explained that the school teaches instruments such as trumpet, clarinet, trombone, bassoon, xylophone, and drums.
"NOT I, BUT WE: ORCHESTRA TEACHES UNITY"
Deniz emphasized that orchestra lessons are not just about making music and summarized the fundamental philosophy of military schools through this course with the following words:
"In our orchestra lesson, everyone plays their own instrument, but there is a more important element: we learn to be united. The most important principle of military schools is 'not I, but we.' Orchestra training is very important for us because in our duties, we work together. It is a very valuable lesson for us that aims for everyone to play, pause, and listen together."
OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME A BAND CONDUCTOR AND A CALL TO WOMEN
Deniz noted that training is occasionally supported by organized trips and concerts, and highlighted that students who successfully complete the first year can continue their education at Hacettepe University for an additional four years to become a "band conductor." She stated that her own musical journey began with the violin at age 12, and after experiences at Fine Arts High School and Ege University, she now plays the trumpet at MSU.
Deniz, who admitted to initial hesitations but did not give up on becoming one of the first female students of the historic school, addressed other women who wish to choose this path:
"As four female students, we await other women, our sisters. At first, I thought, 'I wonder if I can succeed, if they will accept me.' But I said, 'why not?' Believe me, if you truly want something, there is nothing you cannot achieve. It is a very beautiful school. We learn instruments and at the same time, we are soldiers. We try to reflect the honor and pride of this through the glorious uniform we wear."