You’ve probably heard about Victor’s percussion program at this point, whether you realize it or not. The marching band is arguably a vital part of fall football games, and when marching season is over, Victor Indoor Percussion Ensemble begins its auditions. The people involved in these programs are having rehearsals and performing and competing all year round, but very rarely get credit where it’s due. 

The Victor Marching Blue Devils wrapped up their 2024 season in late October. This season was important for two specific people in the percussion section – Nate Bajus, the battery section leader, and Nate Crane, the front ensemble section leader. 

Both Nates have been incredible leaders for their respective sections, and have worked incredibly hard in their time in VMBD and VIPE. They’re both juniors this year, and while Nate Bajus has been a section leader since freshman year, Nate Crane experienced his first year as section leader this past season. 

Percussion is a year round activity for most involved. Marching band spring rehearsals start in May, and the season ends in October. VIPE tryouts pretty much start up right afterwards, in November, and the season runs until April. It requires a lot of hard work, but so much is learned from the experience, and the benefits and friends you make are worth so much. 

Going into a program like this, especially for the first time, the people involved make the long rehearsals worth it. The student leadership team, or the section leaders, are incredibly helpful and really encourage you to want to do your best. 

Nate Bajus is plays a snare drum for both VMBD and VIPE. He is a role model for most people in these ensembles and the marching band’s band captain, Jillian Smith, says only positive things about him. She talks about the welcoming and friendly environment he creates for the battery, and how he manages to encourage fun while pushing everyone to be their best. “He always pushes us to “give 110% on every rep, while also making sure we’re having fun at every rehearsal.”

He loves being a section leader for the battery in VMBD, saying that he’s learned how to lead by example, and how to tackle different situations since people joining band come from all types of backgrounds. He described the people in these ensembles as family. Music has been so important to him because of the people involved as well, and has helped to push the limits of how hard he can work at something. 

Nate Crane plays marimba for both music ensembles, and has made such a huge impact as section leader just in his first year. The front ensemble instructor, Dennis Slater, describes Nate Crane as a strong leader. He talked about how Nate inspires his peers to do well in music.

Nate describes the new experience of being section leader for the front ensemble as overwhelming at first, but that he gained so much respect and appreciation for the instructors, saying “They manage so much more than me and how they still handle it all so well”. He talked about playing music from a very early age, and how it’s so expressive. 

Both Nates recalled going to World Championships with VIPE in 2024, and how it was an incredible opportunity to see professional percussionists and meet people who are just as passionate about the activity as they are. 

Victor Indoor Percussion @ 2024 NYSPC Championships

There’s so many people both on the field or the floor and behind the scenes who contribute to this incredible program. If I was able to write about everyone who helps these ensembles succeed, I would. Every single instructor and student leader and student and volunteer puts in an indescribable amount of work, and although this article is focused on two people, I thank everyone who make marching band and VIPE what it is.

The 2025 VIPE season is already underway, preparing for competitions, including their Home Show, a competition hosted here at Victor on February 15th, 2025. Everyone is encouraged to come and support your school’s percussionists!