TubaChristmas in Polk County is pleased to announce that Jamie Hafner will be the conductor for this year’s free concert on Dec. 5 at Polk County High School at 1:30 p.m. This will be his second year as conductor after several years as a player.

Mr. Hafner is an accomplished tuba player and comes with a stellar resume. He studied for two years with Mr. Harvey Phillips, the founder of TubaChristmas. Professor Hafner most recently served as director of bands at Brevard College. He is director emeritus of bands at the University of Toledo and director emeritus of education at the Brevard Music Center.

As a tubist, Hafner performed with the United States Military Band at West Point, the Savannah Symphony, the Toledo Symphony, the University of Toledo Brass Quintet and at the Brevard Music Center. He was a featured soloist with the Brevard Community Band. Hafner was a founding member of the International Tuba-Euphonium Association and has been commended by that group for his service as a teacher and performer.

As a conductor, Professor Hafner has earned the praises of many composers, including Kay, Persichetti, Ward, Husa, Tull and Mailman, for his interpretation of their music.

Set aside Saturday, Dec. 5 at 1:30 for the annual free concert of TubaChristmas at the Polk County High School Auditorium. Begin your Christmas Season with these fine brass sounds.

– Submitted by Betsy Zeek