Lt David Coit 

Defence Force Musician

David Coit (class of 1996) is currently the Officer in Charge of the Australian Navy Band, Melbourne. David describes his job as a musician in the Defence Force, but a military person first and foremost. Musicians, he says, have the same roles as everyone else in the Navy. They must meet the same physical and job standards, however, their primary job is to play music.

David said that he enjoys the variation he has in this role. He noted "it is nothing for us to be playing for the Queen one day and a high school the next".

One of his jobs as a musician in the Navy is known as 'Forces Entertainment,' which is when people are sent to places such as Iraq and the Solomon Islands to entertain the Navy deployed there. Part of his job description includes managing the technical side of comedian and musician performances including, but not limited to stage and lighting. "Though it is usually more in-depth because we have guns with us", he says.

David is grateful for his time in the music department at Brisbane State High School, saying it was his involvement in the school band as a trumpet player, as well as his work at the conservatorium that set him up well for a life in music.

Written by Julie Blaga*

*NB: This alumni profile was crafted by a State High student as part of the school's student/alumni interview project during the 2021 Centenary celebration.