Staff Sergeant Tristan Mitchell, Drum Major of the NZ Army Band.
I believe it's vital to remain happy. I'm happiest either at home relaxing with my wife and two kids, or at work, being Drum Major of the New Zealand Army Band.
The moment I enjoy most is stepping out before a crowd of thousands to perform our unique marching displays. To hear the crowds react gets the adrenaline pumping and drives the performance to another level. A definite happy place.
I joined the New Zealand Army Band in 1993 and have completed close to 20 years' service. Those 20 years have moved by very quickly. I'm a coaster at heart and began my musical career at the age of 11 in my home town of Westport, playing trombone with the Westport Municipal Band.
When I was a teenager, the New Zealand Army Band came to Westport during a regional tour, and I was transfixed. Not long after, I found myself in Waiouru doing basic training before joining the band at its home location, Burnham Military Camp in Canterbury. Since then I've progressed through the ranks to serve as Drum Major, senior instructor of the School of Music and band master.