Tuba Christmas
The Naperville Municipal Band hosted their 40th annual Tuba Christmas in Downtown Naperville.
“The thing that was neat about this one is that it was one of the biggest crowds we’ve ever had at the bank listening, it was huge. And that spurs them on to play even more,” said Ronald Keller, conductor and musical director of Tuba Christmas.
A total of 75 performers treated the large crowd at the U.S. Bank on Washington street to 11 holiday carols.
Bringing Together Generations
Music brings different generations together, which is one reason why Keller likes it so much.
“I think it’s good for the young kids to see the older people playing. But it’s also good for the older people to see that young kids coming through show that interest and that means there’s a future,” said Keller.
Keller’s Retirement
And in the near future, Keller will be passing the baton onto the next conductor.
“Whenever you come to realize that it’s getting close to the end, of anything, there’s always emotion. And I think the same will be true with the municipal band, I mean I’ve been director 54 years,” said Keller.
He won’t be leaving too quickly. For the next three years he’ll be training the new director and still play with the band.
Naperville News 17’s Aysha Ashley Househ reports.
