ADAMS COUNTY, Pa. — Every year music lovers gather in Gettysburg to celebrate the holiday season in a unique way by participating in the Tuba Carol Fest.
The event showcases the festive sounds of tuba players from across the country. This year's concert brought together 68 participants, each eager to participate in this untraditional holiday tradition.
Maggie White, a dedicated attendee since childhood, said the holiday season wouldn't be complete without this trip to Gettysburg.
“I used to come and watch them and being able to participate in them it really feels like it’s getting me into the holiday spirit,” White said.
The concert, a holiday tradition for the last 28 years, was founded by tuba player Ben Jones. Now he calls the shots as the group’s conductor.
While many ensemble members return to play each year, Jones is never sure how many will show as the group relies on volunteers.
“It’s kind of a Christmas miracle [because] we never know how many we’re going to have to play,” Jones added.
The event serves as a platform for tuba players to steal the show, a welcome change from their usual role in orchestral back rows.
“This shows you that tubas can play a melody,” Jones stated, a smile spreading across his face as bright as the spotlight was on his instrument of choice.
The concert also emphasizes community, uniting participants from 31 different areas, some local and others from as far away as 300 miles all with varying experience levels.
This year was White’s second concert with the carolers. She detailed her journey of teaching herself to play tuba while managing her final exams.
“I taught myself two days ago…but I really wanted to challenge myself and do something different so I was like, hey, let's learn tuba.”
The ensemble includes musicians of all ages, this year included players from age 16 to 83. Bill Foreman has been the group’s oldest member for the last two years and doesn’t plan to lose the title anytime soon.
He shared, “I guess if I can walk down from the square next year I’ll get it at 84, hopefully!”
Giving these winter weather friends something to look forward to in another 365 days.