Tubist Kevin LaRose stopped by Classical IPR studios to talk about International Tuba Day and a celebration in Kingsley, MI.
He’s helping spread the word about the 2nd Annual Tuba Day Parade, taking place Friday, May 2, at 5:00 p.m.
International Tuba Day was created to recognize those "who have to go through the hassle of handling a tuba," said LaRose. The day goes back to 1979 and is celebrated on the first Friday in May each year.
For Kevin LaRose, the parade is all about having fun, making some noise in northern Michigan and celebrating music with the community. All are welcome — you don’t need to sign up or register — just show up ready to play and walk.
Last year's inaugural parade as more of a "flash mob" of tubas, he said. This year, LaRose hopes to attract more awareness and participation by spreading the word early and getting more musicians involved.
As for his instrument? It weighs 26 pounds and "her name is 'Sousanna,' named after John Philip Sousa," said LaRose.
Kingsley's Tuba Day Parade takes place at 5:00 p.m. on the sidewalks of Kingsley. Anyone who wants to join should meet behind the Kingsley Library by the children’s garden at 4:45 p.m.
Following the parade is an afterparty at Kingsley Inn with music from Kevin LaRose's ensemble the Northern Lower Brass Quartet.
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