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Mankind has had a long-time fascination with music and flight as it has the power to suspend everyday thought and worry in a seemingly magical connection. Listening to the melodic rhythm of music and watching the miracle of flight can be truly inspiring.

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds had the exceptional opportunity of bringing music and flight together when they flew one of Canada's greatest ambassadors and artists November 14.

"It was a pleasure and an honour for the team to fly with Ms. Loreena McKennitt, an internationally-loved singer and composer, a generous and dedicated humanitarian, and a genuine and influential advocate of the Canadian Forces as the Honorary Colonel of 435 Squadron in Winnipeg, Man.," said Major Robert Mitchell, Commanding Officer, Canadian Forces Snowbirds. "We are so grateful for the opportunity to fly with such a great Canadian."

During the 2-day visit, Honorary Colonel McKennitt toured the home of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the NATO Flying Training in Canada Program as well as prepared for an exciting 9-plane, formation training flight over the beautiful Prairie landscape.

"The Snowbirds demonstrate a universal lesson - that extraordinary things can happen when a group of people come together as one," said Honorary Colonel Loreena McKennitt, following the flight. "I have the deepest admiration for a team, who works at such an elite level - a point of excellence."

Honorary Colonel McKennitt was offered a bird's-eye-view from the cockpit of Snowbird 5, Captain Denis Beaumont, who flies in the middle of the formation. With a glorious Prairie sun and fresh snow, the environment was exquisite.

"It was truly a wonderful opportunity to fly with Honorary Colonel McKennitt," said Captain Denis Beaumont, Snowbird 5. "She was an excellent flyer with a remarkably meticulous approach to the flight."

The 1-hour training flight included wing-tip manoeuvring over the Mossbank, Sask., as the team earnestly begins its Training Season in preparation for the 2008 Season.

"The flight was incredibly enjoyable; the intensity of focus is fascinating," said Honorary Colonel McKennitt. "When one is flying in close formation, dealing with the physicality of G - Force and taking into account the environmental variables of the day, it is extraordinary."

The Snowbirds initially connected with Honorary Colonel McKennitt following the tragic loss of Captain Shawn McCaughey May 18, 2007.

During her concert in Victoria, B.C. on May 19, Honorary Colonel McKennitt dedicated Penelope's Song to Shawn's memory.

Since then, the team performed the Tribute Pass in their 2007 Show to the music of Penelope's Song, which appropriately captures the sentiment of waiting for your loved ones to return.