The University of Akron will be “Holiday Central” on Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11, as it hosts two beloved musical traditions at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall — TubaChristmas and Jingle Jazz.
TubaChristmas returns for a 37th year on Dec. 10, conducted by founder Tucker Jolly. Two shows are scheduled, at noon and 2:30 p.m., in Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St.
President Matthew Wilson
A gift to the community from the School of Music and Thomas Hall, TubaChristmas combines hundreds of tubas – many festively adorned with tinsel, garlands and lights –and sing-alongs in a beautiful setting.
The tradition of having a special guest tubist will continue as well. And, in the chair this year? UA President Matthew Wilson.
Individuals interested in performing can contact Jolly at trjolly@uakron.edu. The performances are free for the audience and $10 for performers. For more information, contact ext. 8301 or concerts@uakron.edu.
Next up is Jingle Jazz on Sunday, Dec. 11, at 3 p.m. UA jazz students and faculty will fill Thomas Hall with the lively, up-tempo sounds of the holiday season. Jingle Jazz is part of the Kulas Concert Series, the School of Music’s signature concert series that is supported by the Cleveland-based Kulas Foundation.
Performers will include trumpeter Jack Schantz, UA’s coordinator of jazz studies, and Steinway Jazz Artist-in-Residence Joe Augustine, and UA faculty Mark Gonder, Rock Wehrmann, Tim Powell, Dean Newton and Patty LaNasa. The audience will be treated to guest performances by UA’s Steel Drum Band, Brass Choir, and Rhythm and Roos, a student a cappella group.
Tickets for Jingle Jazz are $12 for general admission, $6 for non-UA students and free for UA students with Zip Cards. For tickets, call 330-253-2488 or order tickets online.