NEWBERRY — Tuba Christmas is coming to the Newberry community for the 18th consecutive year. One of our city’s favorite Christmas events will be held on December 15 at the Alumni Music Center recital hall on the Newberry College campus. The performance is free and begins at 3 p.m.
Tuba Christmas itself is an international event which was started by famous tubist Harvey Phillips as a way to present tubas and euphoniums (baritone horns) in a beautiful and moving performance of Christmas carols, arranged specially for these instruments. Since its first performance 45 years ago, Tuba Christmas has grown and spread to every significant city in the Christian world. South Carolina has five gatherings including Newberry, which has often been the state’s largest.
John Fulmer is the site coordinator and program manager. Bill Long, who presented the first program in Newberry 18 years ago, will be music director. His wife Janet, recently retired from Newberry College, will be guest conductor.
For those performing, registration will be at noon in the College band room. The registration fee is $10 which will also secure the collectible button. Rehearsal is at 1 p.m. and the performance is at 3 p.m. Collectible stocking caps, scarves and ear muffs will be on sale for both audience members and performers. In addition, refreshments including muffins and drinks will be on sale.
Tuba and euphonium players wishing to participate should contact John Fulmer at 803-924-8480 or Bill Long at 803-321-9004.