Testimonials

The links on this page lead to the personal accounts of RAF Musicians who have been deployed or at key times in their careers. While the content of the articles has been restricted by the need to maintain operational security, they are in all other respects the views and feelings of the individuals concerned. With the addition of further testimonials in the future we hope this will build up in to a realistic view of life as an RAF Musician. Please follow the links below to access the thoughts of RAF Musicians young and old.

The Band of the RAF College in Australia - February 2010

In February 2010 The Band of the Royal Air Force College travelled to Sydney to take part in the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Australia. This article charts the bands progress through the first rehearsals to the last performance. Click here

SAC Chris Owen

Now that I have been in the RAF for over a year, I feel it is time to write the article that Paul Kampen asked of me soon after I joined up! Having read about Horn virtuoso Dennis Brain’s time in the RAF (he can indeed be seen in some of the old photos of the Central Band of the RAF), I thought it might also be interesting for readers to hear what life in an RAF band is like in the 21st Century………….. Click here

SAC Judith O’Hara

Judith joined the RAF direct from University. Her account of her first year gives a useful insight into the process of becoming an RAF Musician. Click here

Cpl Phil Scott and JT Jeanette Lane (now Sgt and Corporal respectively and both Scott!)

The first RAF Musicians to be deployed to Afghanistan Phil and Jeanette were deployed to Kabul. Click here

Cpl Dave Bowmar(now Chief Technician)

Cpl Bowmar was deployed to Basrah in 2004 and performed two roles neither of which had anything to do with music! Click here

Cpl Helen Bailey (now Sergeant)

These are Cpl Helen Bailey's thoughts after her trip ‘down south’ which has become a regular experience for RAF Musicians. Click here

Chief Technician Daz Carter (now Flight Sergeant)

Each year the RAF and RAAF exchange a Senior Non Commissioned Officer. In 2007 Chf Tech Daz Carter spent four months in Australia.............. Click here