TubaChristmas hits Las Cruces

An idea that started 50 years ago has grown to more than 300 cities throughout the United States, in several foreign countries, and now in our own Las Cruces, will be   p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, in the New Mexico State University Atkinson Recital Hall.

“A TubaChristmas” was started as an homage to the late and great teacher, William J. Bell. Bell,

born on Christmas Day, 1902, was the premier tuba player and teacher in America during the first half of the 20th century. Bell passed away in 1971 and three years later a student of his, Harvey Phillips, started what has become a national sensation.

The first TubaChristmas opened in the Rink at Rockefeller Center in 1974, led by American composer Alec Wilder. Through Wilder, TubaChristmas concerts pay grateful tribute to composers who have embraced these noble instruments with solo and ensemble compositions.

They regularly attract tuba and euphonium players by the dozens.

The free event will be put on by Allan Kaplan, Professor of Music at NMSU. Currently there are more than 60 players ready to showcase a number of Christmas songs. All arrangements are by  American composer Alec Wilder, who died on Christmas Eve in 1980).

Through Wilder, TubaChristmas concerts pay grateful tribute to composers who have embraced these instruments with solo and ensemble compositions.

Awards will be given for categories such as “Best Dressed Tuba” and the oldest and youngest participant.

Atkinson Recital Hall is at 1075 N. Horseshoe St. on campus and the concert is free.