Tuba Christmas blows into Market Square today

Hear Christmas tunes such as We Three Kings, Good King Wenceslas and Jingle Bells played with a distinctive deep, baritone sound as 100 musicians with tubas and euphoniums celebrate Tuba Christmas at Market Square today.

Musicians from Greater Victoria and around the region will gather to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the holiday concert.

“It’s always a great mystery as to who shows up,” said Paul Beauchesne, conductor for the event and principal tuba player with the Victoria Symphony. “There’s lots of buzz this year because it is our 40th anniversary.”

The crowd at today’s concert will be treated to a new arrangement composed just for the brass instruments.

People who are unable to attend in person can watch it through a video stream at timescolonist.com.

The concert is a fundraiser for the Times Colonist Christmas Fund, which assists families and individuals in need. Admission is by donation. The concert runs 1 to 3 p.m. today in the courtyard of Market Square, 560 Johnson St. Dress for the weather, as the venue is outdoors.