Two hundred fifty-eight students gathered to perform the annual holiday concert “Joyous Noel” along with a special guest from Kansas Wesleyan University.

Senior Brynn Shaft was featured as the 2024-2025 “Away in the Manger” soloist. 

“I am excited and a little nervous about the overall performance because I am going to be performing in front of my parents.” Shaft said. “ But I have become more comfortable because I have practiced more.

Shaft says that having this opportunity.

“I have always looked up to the people who do the solo, and I have always looked forward to this opportunity,” Shaft said. “We got to go to a nursing home, and I was able to sing this solo, and the effect it had on the older people was very magical.”

The performance included a diverse array of musical groups featuring the school band, jazz band,orchestra and choir. 

Each ensemble showcased their unique arrangements of classic holiday songs.

Sophomore Katherine Boller, a flute and saxophone player, expresses her feelings about the performance.

“My favorite song to play during Joyous Noel was “Polar Express”,” Boller said. “It made me feel happy.” 

Every year one soloist is chosen to perform the “Away in the Manger” solo and Shaft said this moment made her realize how important this leadership role was for her in the near future.

“I want to have an impact on other people and I will keep singing throughout my life,” Shaft said. “Choir is very important to me.” 

One of Shaft’s peers was awestruck at how well everyone always performs under such pressure.

“It definitely seems like a lot to do this solo,” sophomore Lexi Foos said. “I am always proud of the soloists because they endure lots of pressure and it seems nerve-wracking.”

 Students like Foos are looking forward to another performance of Joyous Noel because of the feeling that comes along with the holidays.

“I am looking forward to Joyous Noel next year.” Foos said “It reminds me of the joyful holiday spirit that comes along with it and that’s what truly makes me happy.”