Tom Bronken 8th Day Interview – Tuba Christmas on Sunday, December 15th MRHC 1:30p-2:30p

Marquette, Michigan – Marquette’s annual Tuba Christmas holiday concert will be held on Sunday, Dec 15 at 1:30 p.m. at the Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring St., Marquette. Tuba and euphonium players from around the area will perform Christmas carols in this annual tradition which is free and open to the public.

Listen:

• mediaBrew Media Player: ( 9 Min. mp3)
• Default Device Player: ( 9 Min. mp3)

Tuba Christmas got its start with a concert on the ice rink at New York’s Rockefeller Plaza in 1974. 300 tuba and euphonium players congregated on that day to perform Christmas carols specially arranged by noted composer Alec Wilder. Since the inaugural concert, tuba and euphonium choirs have met annually in various locations to continue this event. This year over 300 cities across the United States and in several foreign countries will play the same arrangements as those performers 45 years ago.

Marquette’s Tuba Christmas got its start a bit more recently, but rapidly established itself as an annual tradition. After instrument valves froze during one particularly cold December day, the Marquette Regional History Center graciously opened its doors to the group several years ago and has hosted crowds annually. While some die-hard fans have complained that the group doesn’t play outdoors anymore, more people have commented that they enjoy the music more when they’re warm. Audience members who want a chair are advised to get there early because they go fast. It’s free, and it’s fun, and it’s at 1:30 PM at the Marquette Regional History Center on Sunday, Dec 15.