Leonard Falcone

ABOUT

Leonard Falcone joined the MSU faculty in 1927 and served with ever-expanding influence and respect for 53 years. Professor Falcone combined remarkable artistic talent with natural pedagogical instinct. He was a world-class brass player, and his reputation for excellence touched all aspects of his career. His solo performances, his bands, and his students were all characterized by a singular dedication to the highest standards. During his tenure as director, Professor Falcone’s original single 65-piece Military Band developed into four units: the 175-piece Marching Band, the 115-piece Concert Band, the 100-piece Activity Band, and the Spartan Brass. An example of his positive influence beyond MSU is his support of Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp that began with its opening in 1966. As a guest conductor and honorary trustee, he helped Blue Lake become what former Michigan Governor William Milliken considered to be “one of the state’s greatest cultural assets.” It was in honor of his exemplary musical and educational accomplishments that a group of Professor Falcone’s former students, in cooperation with Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, established the Leonard Falcone International Euphonium Festival (now Euphonium and Tuba Festival). The Festival has become a continuing testimony to Dr. Falcone’s profound influence upon the lives of his students and the extraordinary artistry he achieved. He retired as Director of Bands at MSU in 1967, although he retained his position as Professor of Baritone Horn until his death in 1985. In recognition of his distinguished career, the MSU awarded Professor Falcone the Doctor of Fine Arts degree in 1978, marking 50 years of contributions to MSU.