Flight delayed: Christmas songs played by army vet on plane
Army Veteran Serenades Passengers on Delayed Flight with Impromptu Saxophone Performance
Wayne Hoey, a 70-year-old Army veteran, recently found himself in a unique situation during a flight delay in Atlanta. As his plane sat on the tarmac for over an hour, Hoey decided to take out his saxophone and entertain his fellow passengers.
Hoey, who always carries his saxophone with him, noticed a few restless toddlers on the flight and offered to help calm them down with some music. With permission from the flight crew, he proceeded to play Christmas tunes on his saxophone, much to the delight of the passengers.
Roaming up and down the aisle like Kenny G, Hoey played a variety of songs, including classics like “Holly Jolly Christmas,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Silent Night.” He even took requests from the passengers and played “Baby Shark” for a young child on the flight.
Hoey, who spent years performing in the U.S. Army Band, has a deep connection to music. He learned to play the saxophone while serving in the military and continued his passion for music throughout his career.
After retiring from the military, Hoey pursued a music education degree and became a teacher in Colorado. He now substitutes as a music teacher in Augusta and finds joy in sharing his love for music with children.
Hoey’s impromptu performance on the plane went viral after a passenger filmed him and shared the video on social media. The heartwarming moment captured the spirit of the holiday season and renewed people’s faith in humanity.
The video of Hoey playing the saxophone on the plane has garnered widespread attention, with viewers praising his talent and kindness. Despite the unexpected fame, Hoey remains humble and grateful for the opportunity to bring joy to others through his music.
As he continues to carry his saxophone with him wherever he goes, Hoey plans to keep spreading cheer and making connections through music. His passion for sharing the gift of music serves as a reminder of the power of art to uplift and inspire, even in the most unexpected circumstances.