Merry TubaChristmas is celebrating its 37th anniversary (1974-2010). Created by Harvey Phillips, Merry TubaChristmas 2010 concerts will be presented in over 250 cities throughout the United States and in several foreign countries.

Phillips was inspired to create TubaChristmas as an annual event honoring his teacher, the late tubist William J. Bell (born Christmas Day, 1902). Every Christmas season, tuba and euphonium players of all ages, from specific geographic areas, gather to pay respect through William J. Bell to all the great artists/teachers who represent their heritage.

Every TubaChristmas performance features traditional Christmas carols especially arranged for the first TubaChristmas (December 22, 1974 in NYCs Rockefeller Plaza) by American composer Alec Wilder, who died Christmas Eve, 1980. Through Wilder, Tuba

Christmas concerts pay tribute to composers who have embraced these instruments with solo and ensemble compositions.

Depending on the population of any given geographic area, TubaChristmas ensembles may attract multiples of 100 participants aged eight to over 90 years. Locally, TubaChristmas will be held in Columbus at the Polk County High School on Saturday, December 4 at 1:30 p.m.