Somehow I made it through nearly four years of high school without ever going to a choir concert. What a mistake.

Walking into the North Performing Arts Center, I planned to stay and usher for the Sounds of the Season concert for only my required hour for NHS. Nearly three hours later, I left completely in the holiday spirit, countless songs stuck in my head, and wishing I had joined choir freshman year.

From the very first Santa hat-clad dancer I saw entering the stage, I was captivated. The show had constant high energy and I don’t think I was the only person who was ready to jump out of my seat and start dancing right alongside the choirs.

I particularly enjoyed seeing all of the choir dresses and costumes I had only ever seen hanging outside of the MPR. The variety of different Christmas-themed outfits in the first number was festive enough to put any Scrooge into the holiday spirit. From Santa outfits to ugly sweaters to reindeer antlers, I was content just looking at all the different outfits. Then add singing and dancing to the equation and I was converted. Why had I never gone to these concerts before?

I was so impressed by all of the different solos. I truly was astounded by the talent of my peers. It was an awesome experience to see people I sit next to every day in class really coming of their shells and pouring their hearts into the performance.

A highlight of the night for much of the audience, myself included, was the tap-dancing Santas. I love tap dancing, but something about 8 Santas twirling across the stage made me enjoy it even more.

My favorite song of the night was The Pointe Singer’s rendition of “Oh Holy Night.” I had always heard about the Pointe Singers but until now I never really heard them. I was beyond impressed. Their talent was unmatched and honestly quite moving.

New for this year was a sing-along of classic Christmas carols with the audience. Although I am no singer myself, I enjoyed this part of the concert thoroughly and, as evidenced by slightly off-key, but enthusiastic renditions so did the rest of the audience.

By the end of the concert, I was eager to join in the standing ovation for the choirs and quite pleased with what started as an NHS service project, only feeling a bit regretful that I never joined choir. It was one of the best shows I have seen in a long time and I know I for one will definitely be at the next choir concert. I would highly recommend the next show for anyone looking to be blown away by talent and swept into a winter wonderland of holiday cheer.

The last show of Sounds of the Season is Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. at the North Performing Arts Center.