This year, 2023, marks the 50th year of TubaChristmas, starting in 1974 in New York City. Today, a half century later TubaChristmas concerts/events are presented in many locations throughout the world.
TubaChristmas will return to Central Mall in Salina, Kansas, this time moved to the Food Court, for a performance at 12:30pm Saturday, December 9, 2023. This tradition began in Salina in 2010, a year after the annual organizer Ron McWilliams, former tubist with the Salina Symphony, first played for TubaChristmas in Manhattan, KS, in 2009.
For 2023, rehearsal is moved to the Friendship Center, 746 Commanche Ave. in Salina, KS. On Saturday, Dec. 9, registration for euphonium and tuba players starts at 8:30am, and rehearsal time is from 9 to 11am. The TubaChristmas music book has 33 Christmas songs, compiled and arranged by Alec Wilder and Norlan Bewley. Past performances have been as the south end of Central Mall near the Penney store, but this year the performance is being moved to the food court of Central Mall. Costs for players are $10 registration (includes the 2023 participation pin), plus one-time book purchase of $20.