TUBACHRISTMAS!

Yeah, been going for two decades, so nothing really new, right? 

Wrong! This year’s presentation was refreshingly “new…”

Last year’s soloist was this year’s conductor, who also favored us with a virtuosic display of tubism unheard before. Handel’s “Aria and Variations” would challenge any brass player, but on a euphonium? Wow!  

Conductor Kenneth Mace blew us away with his playing of the “Harmonious Blacksmith,” as Handel’s work is popularly known, originally scored for harpsichord. I think a harpsichord may be easier to play than a euphonium!

The honor of playing “O Holy Night” went to Western Carolina University freshman Justin Taylor this year, and our own Karen Killough played the accompaniment for both Taylor and Mace.

Another highlight was the original composition “Santa wants a Tuba for Christmas” performed by the WCU ensemble. Big appreciation by the audience.   

The band of volunteer musicians included more young people this year, and the variety of instruments was not as great. But the rain apparently did not dampen anyone’s enthusiasm, as the auditorium appeared to be full.

Merry Christmas!

Garland Goodwin, Tryon