After 50 years, UW Band Director Michael Leckrone is retiring. His final concert is at the Kohl Center tonight, leading the annual UW Varsity Band Spring Concert. I talked with him about this, the final home football game in November, his career, and more in my EricCast podcast.
And trust me, as a UW alumus, it was awesome to have a band like the University of Wisconsin Band, which we could proudly flaunt no matter how the football team was doing (you have to note, I started college at UW when Don Morton was coach, we went like 1-10 and 2-9 in seasons, and now the phrase "Veer Offense" is considered unprotected free speech within the city limits of Madison). As a leader, Mr. Leckrone has led amazing bands, been a remarkable leader, mentor, and friend to so many in the university system, and leaves a legacy that will be challenging to follow.
You can enjoy the UW Varsity Band's Spring Concert tonight (April 11th) at the Kohl Center, despite the more winter-esque weather we've had the last day or two. Meanwhile, check out my conversation with Mike Leckrone right here: