Annually, more than 200 VSA Choir and high school marching band members with and without disabilities join University of Wisconsin (UW) Marching Band Director Mike Leckrone and the UW Marching Band in a pre-game and halftime performance.

Leckrone has served on the VSA Board of Directors since October 1987. In 1988, inspired by his wife’s experiences teaching children with disabilities, Leckrone identified the need to create an integrated music program and VSA Day was born. He said, “I wanted to create something that was fun and could be done spontaneously with these kids. Participation was the essential ingredient. I wanted something that didn’t have to be ‘perfect.’ Music is a universal language that should be enjoyed by everyone. I wanted fun, but more importantly I wanted to give these kids a chance of a lifetime to have a ball.” Through this program, he has energetically encouraged countless people of all ages and abilities to make music an integral part of their lives.

VSA Choir members with and without disabilities from around the state take the field before the game to sign the National Anthem in American Sign Language.

"VSA Day is a day we look forward to all year” says Kathie Wagner, president of VSA arts of Wisconsin. "VSA Choirs and high school marching band members with and without disabilities all over the state prepare and practice for many hours to participate at this event. It is such a thrill for each of them to have the chance to perform in front of the huge UW crowd!" She adds, "Having our participants performing on the field alongside the UW Marching Band demonstrates that people with disabilities can actively participate and express themselves as musicians."

VSA Choir members perform the National Anthem in American Sign Language

VSA Day 2008 Marching Band

Steve Singel leads the VSA Marching Band! Photo by Ralph Sandler

2009 VSA Day sponsors: