He’s been playing music for more than nine decades, fought in World War II, and this weekend, 104-year-old Dominick Critelli is getting ready for another unforgettable performance.

The veteran will perform the National Anthem on his saxophone before Saturday's Islanders-Rangers game at UBS Arena.

It won’t be his first time performing at UBS Arena.

In 2023, he shared the stage there with world-renowned violinist André Rieu, playing in front of a sold-out crowd.

“He said he wanted me to play first over the phone,” Critelli said. “So I did, and an hour later he called me and said it was magnificent.”

Critelli’s musical journey began when he was just 13 years old. He started on the clarinet five years after immigrating to the United States from Italy. His uncle inspired his love for music.

“I used to watch him play, and he would only play waltzes,” Critelli said. “It was nice, and I said, ‘I want to play the clarinet too.’”

After becoming an American citizen, Critelli went on to serve his adopted country. In 1942, he enlisted in the U.S.

Army and fought in World War II for three years. Even while overseas, he never put his music down, often playing alongside fellow soldiers. It was an experience that deepened both his love for music and for America.

“I love my country,” Critelli said. “This is my country. I’ll always love it.”

Now, after more than 90 years of making music, Critelli is preparing for another special moment -- performing in front of his favorite hockey team.

“The Islanders are exciting,” he said. “They’re fast, they change players quickly. It’s a fast game, and I love the Islanders.”

Critelli taught music for over 20 years during his life and still performs in a band. He will be 105 next April.