This month, a surprise for many passengers boosted holiday spirits at George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and William P. Hobby (HOU) airports, as dozens of students from area schools turned out to offer their best musical performances for millions of travelers passing through the city’s two primary airports.

Some were clad in red Santa Claus hats as they belted out such familiar tunes as The Grinch, Jingle Bells and I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas. For a few, this was their second year performing at the airports’ terminals and they were determined to make the most of their experience.

“I really like it when the people walk by and stare at you and some even stop to take pictures! I’m really looking forward to coming back next year,” said Aldine Middle School seventh-grader Ashley Jones. “(They’ve) got to bring us back!”

The musical performances are a part of a joint initiative between the Houston Airport System (HAS) and 12 area schools designed to create a more soothing atmosphere for traveling passengers. Last year was the first time holiday travel through Houston included local choirs at the airports.

However, the response in 2006 was so intensely positive that airport representatives began booking musical talent as early as October of this year. Caroline Schneider, customer service manager for HAS, coordinated the holiday performances.

“We received lots of great feedback last year and I decided that we just had to do it again this year, and for many years to come,” she said. “Passengers really seem to like it. You can see them slow their pace as they’re walking through the airport and sometimes they’ll stop to enjoy the entertainment provided by these great kids.”

While providing a more relaxing environment is part of the mission of this joint initiative, the larger purpose is to enhance the customer service experience throughout the airports. Schneider is also one of the managers in charge of the Houston Friendly program.

This program asks airport employees at all levels to go the extra mile when serving travelers and rewards outstanding performance every quarter with various gifts.