Brisbane local and Army Musician Emily Booij recently experienced a career‑defining moment, performing in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in her home town.

A tenor saxophonist with the 1st Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery Band, Musician Booij enlisted in the Army Reserve in 2024 after watching the band perform at the Brisbane Conservatorium, where she had been studying.

“I went to one rehearsal and felt instantly at home,” Musician Booij said. 

“I knew straight away this was the career for me.”

Emily first picked up the saxophone in Year 7 when her school needed a player. What began as a practical assignment quickly grew into a lifelong passion.

“It’s like a limb – without it, I wouldn’t be whole,” she said. 

“Saxophone is my first love and will be my last.”

The Tattoo became her first performance on such a large and prestigious stage. 

Alongside musicians from the Navy, Army and Air Force bands, as well as massed pipes and drums, Musician Booij performed a medley of marches and contemporary pieces in a tightly choreographed display.

“Playing and executing drill at that level takes so much focus,” she said. 

“Marching while performing takes so much more brainpower than just playing and walking in a straight line.”

Musician Booij credited her Army recruit training, especially the hours of drill, for preparing her for the precision required.

'Drummers carry the beat, but the saxophones bring the soul.'

“My instructors who spent hours teaching me drill definitely led me here,” she said.

Having the Tattoo staged in Brisbane made the experience even more meaningful for her.

“It was so exciting to have this amazing traditional event here where I’m from,” she said. 

“It made the whole experience feel even more special.”

Behind the scenes, Musician Booij said the camaraderie stood out.

“Everyone was tired, but the joy was constant.”

“People made such a conscious effort to keep spirits up, and you make friends you’ll know for the rest of your career.”

For Musician Booij, the role of the tenor saxophone in the massed band had always been clear.

“Drummers carry the beat, but the saxophones bring the soul – and a performance isn’t complete without the soul,” she said.

Although nerves were inevitable before stepping off, the anticipation and energy carried her through.

Reflecting on her first Tattoo performance, she said she could only describe it in one word.

“Unforgettable.”