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VIDEO: TubaChristmas Returns To Jacksonville

Karen Feagins
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Instagram

A unique holiday concert with events around the world is taking place this weekend, including a return engagement in Jacksonville.

This year marks the 40th Anniversary of TubaChristmas — traditional Christmas music performed by a big group of tuba players.

Jacksonville's group of big brass players will be at the Jacksonville Landing Saturday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. The concert has become a staple of the holiday season in the city, with 140 attendees at last year's show.

The crew from TubaChristmas came on First Coast Connect to discuss the show and play a preview.

WATCH: Jacksonville's TubaChristmas ensemble plays "Adeste Fideles" (O Come All Ye Faithful") and "The Dreidel Song" live from First Coast Connect.

TubaChristmas Facts:

  • TubaChristmas was conceived in 1974 by Harvey Phillips as a tribute to his teacher and mentor William J. Bell, born on Christmas Day, 1902.
  • The first TubaChristmas was conducted by Paul Lavalle in New York City's Rockefeller Plaza Ice Rink on Sunday, December 22, 1974.
  • Traditional Christmas music performed at the first TubaChristmas was arranged by American composer Alec Wilder who ironically died on Christmas Eve, 1980.

You can follow Melissa Ross on Twitter @MelissainJax.

Melissa Ross joined WJCT in 2009 with 20 years of experience in broadcasting, including stints in Cincinnati, Chicago, Orlando and Jacksonville. During her career as a television and radio news anchor and reporter, Melissa has won four regional Emmys for news and feature reporting.
A WJCT staff member since 1996, Blues Horizon host Andrew Wiechman is part of the station’s corporate communications team. A native to Jacksonville, Andrew is active in the local arts scene. A professional musician, experienced actor and photographer, Andrew’s passion for music inspired him to create a show that was artist focused: “I knew this was my opportunity to present radio the way I remember it - full of color and dynamics, with lots of light and shade.” Blues Horizon showcases the best in blues and blues based rock while blending artist interviews and a window into the local scene.