Students of the Fiji National University (FNU) sang Happy Birthday to Musician Second Class Kyndra Sisayaket of Shiokaze Winds, a musical ensemble from the United States 7th Fleet, USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) today.

Musician Sisayaket and her fellow performers had the opportunity to share their music with students at FNU’s Nasinu Campus.

Sisayaket, a French horn player, expressed her joy at performing in Fiji.

The US 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrived in Suva earlier this week, marking the ship’s first return to Fiji since 1998.

“Today is actually my birthday, so it’s amazing to be here and perform music in Fiji. This was our first performance here in Fiji as a group. I began my musical journey in middle school, and I absolutely loved it—that’s what inspired me to pursue music as a career,” Sisayaket said.

“We are all professional musicians in the United States Navy. Performing music is one of the many ways we serve our country,” Sisayaket added.

“To students pursuing music, my advice is to continue loving it. If you’re passionate about it, keep working hard and never give up.”

“Many of us spend countless hours practising individually and rehearsing together. We do this because we love music, and that’s why we’ve chosen this career path.”

Associate Dean of the College of Humanities, Education and Law, Jerry Y. Wong, extended his appreciation to the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Fiji for making the visit possible.

“During a time when students are overwhelmed with assignments and mid-term exams, events like this provide a much-needed moment of peace and inspiration. The beautiful sounds of the brass and woodwind ensemble brought joy and relaxation to our campus community,” Wong said.

“We wish the group could have stayed longer and hope to welcome more visits from U.S. Navy musical ensembles whenever they are in port. Our campuses are always open to them.

“We also welcome opportunities for our students and staff to visit the United States for programs in areas such as education, music, creative arts, law, and human rights advocacy.”

Wong concluded by extending special thanks to USS Blue Ridge Seventh Fleet Bandmaster, Lieutenant Andrea Sematoske, and ensemble members Musician Second Class Kyndra Sisayaket, who celebrated her birthday with FNU today, along with MU2 Ashley Oliveto, MU3 Ralph Musni, and MU3 Isabela Stefanyshyn for their outstanding performance at the Nasinu campus.