December featured concerts by WAHS students in the band and choir programs. On Monday, December 12, 2022, WAHS Symphonic and Wind Ensemble bands performed in the Westby Area Performing Arts Center. The following week, on Monday, December 19, 2022 the Cantante and Concert choirs got to perform in the WAPAC, directed by Mrs. Tara Lyons.

During the band concert, the Symphonic band, under the direction of Mr. Josh Curtis, started the concert strong with four songs. They played “Christmas Can-Can,” “Faeries,” “Happy X-mas (War is Over)” and the fan favorite “A Christmas Tale,” which tells the story about Santa’s evil twin, Krampus. Former Westby Area High School Band Director, Mr. Dunnum narrated the story while the band played.

The Jazz band followed the Symphonic Band performance with “Swingin’ Into Christmas,” “A Child Is Born,” and lastly “Go Tell it On the Mountain.”

The Wind Ensemble, directed by Mr. Kory Dahlen finished off the concert with songs, “Here Comes Santa Claus,” “Silent Night in Gotham,” “Suite From the Nutcracker,” which was guest conducted by student teacher Mr. Jacob Jorsted. Next the band played “Grown Up Christmas List,” which featured soloist Mrs. Lyons, and lastly they finished the concert with the classic song “Sleigh Ride.”

During the choir concert, the Cantante choir started the concert off with songs, “Silver Bells,” “Beautiful December,” “Where are you Christmas,” and lastly “We Need a Little Christmas.”

The Jazz singers came out after Cantante and sang “A Christmas Jazz Trio,” which included songs, “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “O Christmas Tree,” and “Winter Wonderland.”

The Concert Choir followed, featuring the Sopranos and Altos in the song “Mr. Santa.” The full Concert Choir sang 3 more songs together: “Silent Night Medley,” “Glow,” and “He Is Born with Pat-a-Pan,” which was sung in French. The Tenors, Baritones, and Basses sang their song, “Sing Noel.” The Concert Choir ended with the song “Variations on Fa La La.”

The traditional Choral Finale was the “Hallelujah Chorus,” which included inviting alumni to come up on stage and sing as well. A handful of local alumni showed their Westby pride by joining the choir on stage.

The winter concerts in December 2022 showed the band and choir members dedication, showcasing their hard work.