When Leading Aircraftman Jayden Blockley stepped onto the stage at the Canberra Theatre Centre, saxophone in hand, he was not just playing to an audience of 800 - he was honouring the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Pacific
Born in Subiaco, the 26-year-old Perth native joined the Royal Australian Air Force as a musician in February last year.
A former music teacher and freelance performer, Leading Aircraftman Blockley has found a role that lets him pursue his passion while serving something bigger than himself.
"There was quite a lot that prompted me to join the Air Force. My personal ambition is to master the saxophone, and being a musician in the Air Force aligns to that, but what really attracted me was being able to use my passion and skills to serve," he said.
"Prior to this job, I was playing in clubs and bars - the musician life has a very inward focus. It's really cool that I have found something where I can consistently improve my skills and use them to serve the community."
From jazz groups and wedding bands to performances and events across the country, the passionate jazz musician admires the meaningful and dynamic nature of a military career.
"There's a balance of structure and unpredictability that I love. Every day is different and I never know what to expect," Leading Aircraftman Blockley said.
Serving alongside his fellow musicians, he is a proud member of the Air Force Band - RAAF's world-class military band that enhances Air Force culture through music and ceremony.
'You shouldn't expect it to be easy, and you shouldn't expect it to be glamourous, but it's the best job I have ever had.'
After just a year in the Air Force, Leading Aircraftman Blockley has already made memories that will last a lifetime.
"My favourite moment is the connection to what we're playing and the audience," he said.
"On Anzac Day this year, we played at the dawn service and marched in song through the streets of Melbourne to the Shrine of Remembrance. The appreciation of the crowd contributed greatly to the significance of the day."
When asked if he had any advice for anyone thinking of joining, Leading Aircraftman Blockley said it is worth the challenge.
"You shouldn't expect it to be easy, and you shouldn't expect it to be glamourous, but it's the best job I have ever had," he said.
More information about the musician mustering can be found here: Musician - ADF Careers.
