Tubas, you say?  Aren’t they the ungainly giants at the rear of bands marching at football games or in parades?  Don’t they just play monotonous low notes to make the other instruments sound better?  Not at all!  Technically, tubas embrace a range of horns including euphoniums, baritone horns, French horns, and, yes, tubas.  When played together by talented musicians of the Astoria Tuba Quartet the sounds of the season come alive in a rich, deep sound that will warm and brighten a cool winter’s day.

Tuba Christmas was conceived in 1974 as a tribute to the late artist/teacher William J. Bell, born on Christmas Day, 1902.  Through the legendary William J. Bell we reflect on our heritage and honor all great artists/teachers.  The first Tuba Christmas was conducted by the late Paul Lavalle in New York City’s Rockefeller Plaza Ice Rink on Sunday, December 22, 1974.

The Astoria Tuba Quartet has played for over 25 years, and has been featured at events throughout the Northwest.  Though a few changes in personnel have occurred over the years the depth of talent has not.  Founder Dennis Hale with Lee Stromquist, Bob Joiner, and Brian Bergman each bring years of experience with them.  All are members of notable area bands, orchestras, and symphonies, and are involved in a myriad of other musical activities.

Of all the faces of Christmas perhaps the most memorable is that of music.  From traditional to whimsical, music brings remembrances that are enduring and joyful.