‘Tis The Season Tuba Jolly!

Released in 2013 on the Basset Hound Music label, 'Tis The Season Tuba Jolly! serves as a unique holiday project featuring Jim Self and the Hollywood Tuba 12. Jim Self, a renowned tuba virtuoso and veteran session musician in the Los Angeles film industry, assembled this ensemble specifically to explore the versatility and warmth of the tuba choir in a festive context. The album represents a niche but sophisticated contribution to seasonal music, moving away from traditional orchestral arrangements to highlight the rich, resonant brass textures unique to a large-scale tuba and euphonium collective.

The album's design and arrangement philosophy reflect Self's extensive career in studio recording, where he sought to elevate the tuba from its typical supporting role to a melodic, lead instrument. By utilizing the Hollywood Tuba 12—a group of top-tier professional players—the recording aimed to demonstrate technical precision and tonal depth that is rarely showcased in holiday-themed albums. While it remains a specialized recording primarily aimed at brass enthusiasts and music educators, it is widely regarded as a benchmark for contemporary tuba ensemble arranging and performance.