Music of the season brings the Tuba Christmas and more to Santa Barbara

While it’s common to see carolers for the Christmas season in shopping districts, downtown Santa Barbara joined many cities across the country with tubas Saturday.

“Tuba Christmas” took place in Storke Placita with about 200 people either performing or watching.

Santa Barbara City College Music Director Eric Heidner and event coordinator Chet Stussy brought local musicians and some from out of town to play about two hours of familiar Christmas songs.

Many of those attending clapped along and sang some verses during the free show.

The performers have years of experience in this event which is celebrating its 45th anniversary.

Tuba Christmas, the official show name, is a registered property of the Harvey Phillips Foundation.

Prior to the tubas, the brass performers played many holiday songs, and separately, the trombone players had a spotlight segment.

Some of the performers will also be at Island Brewing in Carpinteria this evening starting at 5 for more music and a community holiday song sing-a-long.