1970 saw band enrollment jump to 147 members with the size of a performing band being standardized at 120 and saw the present day pre-game run-on format established. 1970 was also the year that Leckrone and all members of the band refer to as "the turning point for the 'new' Wisconsin Band." The Band planned a trip to Indiana University to perform at the Badger/Hoosier game. The Band spent Friday night in Indianapolis and had an early bus ride to Bloomington on Saturday morning. After getting off the buses at the Indiana campus the Band proceeded to have "the worst rehearsal in the history of the Wisconsin Band." It seemed a large number of band members got little or no sleep in Indianapolis, and mental alertness was at a zero level. About halfway through the rehearsal, Leckrone ordered the band off the field. In the two hours between the "rehearsal" and game time, there was a great deal of talk among the band members about pride and giving 100 percent. With a "win one for the Gipper" attitude the Band presented a sensational performance that was met with a standing ovation from the normally sedate Indiana fans. At that point, a new standard of performance was set, and the UW Marching Band began an extraordinary period of growth.

Mike Leckrone circa 1969 - 1970

Many, many highlights (too many to mention here) have occurred during Mike Leckrone's tenure with the Marching/Varsity Band. We'd like to list some of these for you (remember, you can always purchase a "Songs To Thee Wisconsin" Yearbook to find out more.)

  • 1971 - "Tuba Ban at Camp Randall"
  • 1972 - Purchased 16 new brass sousaphones and 150 new uniforms.
  • 1973 - "You've Said It All" becomes a Wisconsin tradition as the hockey team wins its first NCAA Championship in the Boston Gardens. Euphonium player Richard Tucker marches his first game September 15, 1973.
  • 1974 - Paula Schultz (trumpet) and Mary Ann Thurber (saxophone) become first women to march in the Wisconsin Band. Enrollment at 170.
  • 1975 - Leckrone named Director of Bands. Band enrollment tops 200; size of the performing band set to 176. First Varsity Band Concert on March 21, 1975 at Mills Hall with 450 in attendance.

History


Navigation