TUBACHRISTMAS: Hot brass in the city

It is not just because it is fun to say out loud, but for the last 11 years, TUBACHRISTMAS audiences members can attest that this annual festive and unique holiday music-filled event arrives back in Grand Rapids for a stellar 12th time!

Unlike other festivals that appear each year, TUBACHRISTMAS seems to attract an eclectic set of musicians and fans from all over the state who descend on the stage at Downtown Grand Rapids’ Fountain Street Church. 

One never knows who will be performing according to one local organizer and tuba player extraordinaire Karen Dunham, who has seen everything from junior high students to seasoned classically trained players pimp their hot brass on stage. 

This free program packs in a lot of holiday music favorites, as well as finds ways to debut fresh, new material. 

In addition to the return of the popular TUBACHRISTMAS’ rendition of “Jingle Bells,” which includes an opportunity for the audience to join in the performance, is the debut of “Santa Wants a Tuba for Christmas,” with Rebecca Findley Barnhard joining the band on the vocals.

So while locally there are plenty of traditional holiday events to scratch your nostalgia itch, TUBACHRISTMAS, even at year 12, still has the power to feel fresh and new with each and every year it arrives in our city.