The Jazz Orchestra brought a festive spirit to NIU as they performed in the annual “Swinging in the Holidays” concert 3 p.m. Sunday at Boutell Memorial Concert Hall.

Reginald “Reggie” Thomas, Head of Jazz Studies, prepared audience members for the holiday season by providing a night of music which featured songs including “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” by Bing Crosby and “Frosty the Snowman” by Gene Autry.

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas” gave the audience a glimpse into the world of jazz as the pianist played gracefully. Horn instruments like trumpets and wind instruments including the saxophone brought life to the stage.

All of tones provided from each of the instruments stayed consistent with traditional jazz beats. The piano, drums and horns flowed together perfectly. The horns emphasized certain points in each song, which had a dramatic effect.

Gene Autry’s “Frosty the Snowman” featured trombone, trumpet and saxophone solos as light background music played and musicians tapped to the rhythm. The use of syncopation allowed trumpeters, trombonists and saxophonists to place emphasis on certain notes.

“A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives integrated more jazz to the evening as Thomas skatted along to the music successfully adding to whole meaning of the concert.  The smooth playing of guitars, piano and drums accompanied this song.

Thomas made references to jazz legends such as Nat King Cole, as jazz vocalist Matt Callahan excellently sang “The Christmas Song.” Callahan put his own spin on it as he switched up the iconic melody. As he started clapping to the beat, the audience joined in.

Liam Teague, head of Steelpan Studies, was also featured in the concert. Thomas and Teague passionately performed “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson together. Teague played the steelpan as Thomas snapped along to the beat. This naturally added to the overall song.

While some songs like “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” livened the concert up, the performance of “Silent Night” by Franz Xavier Gruber chilled the audience out with its calming beats. The softer rhythm provided a dreamlike sense for the listeners.

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Judy Garland gave the audience a sentimental and calming feeling. It helped prepare people for the holiday season.

The finale of the concert excellently combined “Jingle Bells” by James Lord Pierpont and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” by Arthur Warrell. The performers put all they had into this performances as the different voices harmonized well together.

“Swinging in the Holidays” provided a joyous and high-spirited experience for all who attended.