University of Wisconsin-Madison marching band director Michael Leckrone says he’s stepping down at the end of the school year.
The 82-year-old Leckrone has led the Badger Band since 1969. He made the announcement Saturday.
Leckrone said he made his decision a few weeks ago but delayed sharing it publicly until he could meet with students.
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Leckrone hasn’t decided on future plans and said there is no significance to the timing of his 50th anniversary with the band.
The university will conduct a national search for a new director.
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