Virtuosa tuba player to give jazz performance in Galena

May 15—GALENA, Ill. — A virtuoso tuba player from Minnesota will be the centerpiece of a performance at the Galena Center for the Arts, 971 Gear Street, at 7 p.m. Friday, May 24. Inspired by trumpeters, saxophonists and pianists, Ralph Hepola plays contemporary jazz on the tuba. He will perform an eclectic mix of jazz, blues and ballads with his quartet consisting of guitar, bass and drums.

Born in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Hepola studied piano before starting on the tuba at age 12. He went on to receive a number of awards, including a spot in the Manitoba All-Province Band in Brandon, Manitoba, a position with The United States Army Band of Washington, D.C. and a full scholarship to the Manhattan School of Music.

Hepola earned his music degree at Northwestern University, and has since performed across the United States and in Europe.

This concert has been funded by a grant awarded to Hepola by John Stites Jazz Awards of Michigan. This major grant focuses on expanding jazz audiences and enhancing appreciation of jazz music. Hepola is only one of three to have received this award in 2023.

This concert is free, with donations appreciated to continue bringing regional art and artists to the Galena Center.