When and Where

The 15th TUBACHRISTMAS in Ames will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 3:00 pm in Stephens Auditorium! This is a free and fun-for-all-ages musical event and we're excited to be back in beautiful Stephens Auditorium.

What is TUBACHRISTMAS?

It's like a Messiah sing-a-long for low brass players. Show up, register, rehearse, then play a concert. No advance registration is needed.

Only tubas, euphoniums, baritones and sousaphones allowed. Any player 12 years old and older is welcome. There is nothing better than the rich and glorious sound of a large tuba/euphonium choir!

The Music We Play

For music, we use the Carols for a Merry TUBACHRISTMAS book. These are available at the event, or if you'd prefer not to sight-read, you can purchase one in advance. Bass clef and treble clef "large print" books are $25 (may be subject to change). You can purchase a book in advance by contacting Mike Golemo, TUBACHRISTMAS co-coordinator & conductor, at mgolemo@mchsi.com or at 515.291.9341. Mike is the Director of Bands at Iowa State University. No photocopies or sharing of music books allowed as per the National TUBACHRISTMAS organization.

Musician Schedule for December 6

1:00 - 1:45 pm Registration (ends promptly at 1:45)
1:50 - 2:30 pm Rehearsal (on the stage at Stephens)
2:30 - 3:00 pm Break
3:00 - 4:00 pm Concert

Registration - The Details

2025 Registration Form (coming soon)

• Registration begins at 1:00pm. NEW THIS YEAR... Please do not try to enter Stephens before 1pm as we need to get set up and organized. Thank you for your understanding and help with this request.
• Only Ames TUBACHRISTMAS Registration forms can be used. Forms will be available at Registration on December 6. Better yet... complete then print the 2025 Registration Form (coming soon) and bring it with you on December 6.
• Musicians must enter Stephens at the Stage Door entrance on the south side of the building between 1:00-1:45pm.
• Registration fee has been incread to $15 (per the National TUBACHRISTMAS organization).
• The first 200 registrants will receive a 2025 TUBACHRISTMAS button.
• Musicians – please wear the brightly colored wristband you will be given when you register so our staff knows you are a fully paid and registered musician.

We will be selling TUBACHRISTMAS merchandise, including hats ($20) and scarves ($25) (may be subject to change). We will also be selling “Ames TUBACHRISTMAS” long-sleeve tee-shirts for $15 that feature the elf playing the tuba. If you would like to purchase books, hats or scarves in advance, please contact Mike Golemo. Purchasing items early is encouraged. Items will be available the day of the event ONLY WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. No items can be held for pick-up the day of the event.

Ames TUBACHRISTMAS tees will be on sale before and after the event at Dogtown University at 217 Welch Avenue in Ames. This soft, long-sleeve and fun tee shirt is just $15... while supplies last!

Cash, Checks or Venmo

We accept cash, checks or Venmo for Registration, music books and clothing items. Checks can be made payable to Ames TUBACHRISTMAS and MUST include your driver’s license number.

Be Festive! Decorate Your Instrument!

Wear bright and festive clothing. Adorn your instrument for the event (garland, holiday lights, ornaments, bows or reindeer antlers… you get the idea).

Special Recognition

There will be prizes for the best decorated instruments, the oldest and youngest participants, and the farthest distance traveled to the event.

Other Information for All Musicians

• Bring your own music stand.
• If possible, leave your instrument case in your car.
• If you want to wear a mask when not playing, feel free to do so.
• Water bottles are okay to bring.
• No other food or drinks, please, on stage or backstage at Stephens.
• At Registration, musicians will be given a brightly colored wristband to wear. This helps our staff and Stephens staff know you are a paid and registered musician.

Spouses, Parents, Partners and Friends

In past we’ve had spouses, parents, partners and friends (not playing) come to Registration and rehearsal with musicians. We ask sincerely for your help with these procedures:

• Spouses, parents, partners and friends cannot enter the Registration area or remain backstage at Stephens.
• These folks have the choice to leave Stephens or go to a special seating area to watch the rehearsal. Stephens staff has asked that folks not wander or walk around the building until the event begins.
• At 2:30 pm, when doors open, folks in this special seating area can stay where they are or can join other family members and friends in any of the general admission seats.

Younger Musician Info – Very Important!

• Please, no players younger than age 12.
• It is okay for ONE parent/guardian to accompany you to Registration and rehearsal.
• That parent or guardian can then choose to leave Stephens or remain for the rehearsal in the special seating area described above.

Information for Audience Members

• Doors open at 2:30 pm
• General admission seating – no ticket required
• Please no food or drink in Stephens
• Parking is available in lots south of Stephens Auditorium
• ADA Accessible Seating is available in Stephens (more information)
• Doors will be closed for audience seating when Stephens Auditorium staff determines the house is full.