Maarten Altena in dates
| 1943 | Born in Amsterdam |
| 1964-1968 | Amsterdam Conservatorium |
| 1968-1975 | Plays the double bass in various formations and orchestras |
| 1975-1978 | Solo performances (both improvised and composed) |
| 1978 | Foundation of Maarten Altena Kwartet |
| 1980 | Foundation of Maarten Altena Ensemble |
| 1980-1985 | Private composition classes with Robert Heppener |
| 1997 | Stops playing the double bass in MAE |
| 2005 | Stops as artistic director of MAE |
| 2005-present | Free lance composer |