Jesse McGuire improvises national anthem after trumpet malfunction

During a Major League Baseball game between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the New York Yankees, veteran trumpeter Dr. Jesse McGuire improvised a national anthem performance after his instrument malfunctioned.

While performing ‘The Star-Spangled Banner,’ McGuire’s trumpet failed mid-song. Rather than stopping the performance, the 68-year-old musician transitioned to an a cappella rendition by stepping toward the microphone and singing the remainder of the anthem.

McGuire, who has performed the anthem for decades, told NBC News, “In 40 years of playing, I have never missed that high note. My entire reputation was at stake. So I couldn’t quit. I had to keep going.” The stadium crowd responded with a standing ovation as the performance concluded.