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COLUMBUS—Music lovers have a reason to celebrate, as the 27th Annual TubaChristmas Concert comes to the Polk County High School Auditorium on Saturday, December 7, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The free concert features an afternoon of festive music performed by a talented ensemble of tuba and baritone horn players.

This beloved holiday tradition showcases a collection of holiday favorites and classic carols, all specially arranged for the unique sound of brass instruments. Dr. Calvin Bolton from Spartanburg will lead this year’s performance, who is eager to share the joy of this festive event with audience members.

Bill Leidheiser, a trombone and tuba player, will take over the concert’s management from long-time organizer Manfred Walter. 

“TubaChristmas means a lot to me,” said Leidheiser, who co-organized last year. “You meet some great people and make friends you only get to see once a year at the event. I feel like TubaChristmas helps us jump into the holidays, a lovely way to begin the Christmas season.”

Originating in 1974 as a tribute to the legendary tuba teacher William J. Bell, who was born on Christmas Day, the TubaChristmas movement has spread globally. The inaugural concert was held at New York City’s Rockefeller Plaza Ice Rink on December 22, 1974, and has since grown into a tradition that hosts approximately 300 similar concerts worldwide.

Local brass players are encouraged to join the performance. New participants are always welcome, and there is a registration fee of $10 for those wishing to perform. For more information or to sign up, interested musicians can contact tubachristmas.pc@gmail.com.