St Kilda Brass cornet player Ralph Miller has blown the haunting call at Anzac Day services, funerals, and commemorations since 2001.
He played it at a funeral for returned serviceman Bob Arnott (87) in Mosgiel on Monday.
He will play it again, as usual, on Sunday in Dunedin at the dawn service, a church service, and a bugle concert at Montecillo Veterans Home and Hospital, before sounding it at the RSA choir concert that evening.
Despite all his experience, Mr Miller (25) said the Last Post still affected him.
However, he worked hard not to let the emotion trip him up in what he said was a proud duty.
"You know you have got thousands of people looking at you and you've got one performance."
Invariably, he did not look at people because he could not afford to get caught up in the emotion.
"I just concentrate on playing the tune. That's my job.
"It's not a hard piece at all. What is hard is all the pressure."
He was always mindful that it was not the bugler's show.
"This is about the people we are remembering.
"I've got to do my best for them. It's not just another gig.
"I am privileged every time I am asked to do it."
While he was not involved directly with the military through the reserves or military bands, he had a personal connection that made the Last Post more meaningful.
His grandfather and great-uncle were returned servicemen and he played at both their funerals.
"I also have several family members I never met because of World War 2."
Dunedin RSA Anzac Day convener Lox Kellas said the Last Post was as a major part of any Anzac Day service.
"It's hugely important - it's a very poignant moment."
