Tubachristmas

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Tubachristmas is a music concert in cities worldwide to celebrate those who play and compose music for instruments in the tuba family. Instruments in the tuba family that often appear are the Tuba, Sousaphone, Baritone horn, and Euphonium, while some bring the older Ophicleide and Serpent.

The first Tubachristmas was founded by Harvey G. Philips and was held December 22, 1974 in New York City's Rockefeller Center in recognition of the achievements of William J. Bell who was born on Christmas day, 1902. Over 300 musicians played that day and started an ongoing phenomenon that continues to this day. The arrangements of the Christmas carols were written by Alec Wilder, who ironically died Christmas Eve, 1980.

Tubachristmases vary in size from a minimum of four parts, two on euphonium and two tuba parts, up to several hundred at the biggest events. Any musician can play in a Tubachristmas as long as they play an instrument in the tuba family. Musicians who come age from 8 years old to over 80. There is a $5 participation and the booklet of music costs $12 though the latter is a one time fee. Attending the concert is free.