Luckhardt plans to accomplish this through recruitment and retention, as well as by increasing staff and improving the facilities. Clarinet section leader Brian Zumwalde said Luckhardt has already started working toward his goal. He hit the ground running. He does a good job. He's definitely different.
Every director has a different style.
This year, Luckhardt said he wants band members to remain loyal to the group. This year, Luckhardt planned the Homecoming halftime show to honor the late Dr. Frank Bencriscutto, who died of cancer on Aug. 28, 1997. Bencriscutto, who last led the marching band in 1992, directed the marching band for 32 years, during which time he helped to arrange and write the school songs. Now, Luckhardt is trying to build on Bencriscutto's long tradition at the University. According to several band members, he's already on his way.