The Thunder in the Hills Percussion Invitational kicked off the marching band’s competition season on Sep. 13 at Tiger Stadium. Out of 10 schools in the Advanced Large division, the percussion ensemble placed second with a score of 90.875 out of 100.
“Being able to see all the support from family and friends makes the experience truly special and unlike any other competition,” senior drum captain Caleb Luong said. “Seeing all the posters and hearing all the cheers after each last note converted nervous energy to excitement, resulting in a better show.”
Dripping Springs High School has hosted the competition annually for the past 16 years. Percussion, along with two of four soloists, performed all parts of their 2025 production, “Gaia’s Embrace.” Out of five captions, the group was awarded “Best Tenor Line.”
“When we got it, I was very shocked,” freshman tenor Isaac Amsalu said. “It was really special [earning a spot on battery as a freshman] because it’s been 10 years since a freshman made quads. Getting that award really helped me know all my hard work is paying off.”
The percussion members began their day at 10 a.m., rehearsing for nearly four hours before departing for Dripping Springs. They performed their seven-minute show at 9:30 p.m., followed by the award ceremony, which concluded their 13-hour day.
“What’s really exciting is how quickly the students are picking things up and pushing themselves outside their comfort zones,” percussion director Trevor Deary said. “The energy in rehearsals is high, and I think everyone’s really starting to understand the bigger picture. That is how they contribute to the ensemble: as a whole, not just as individuals.”
After three years of being a front ensemble technician, Deary now manages all of percussion. Prior to performances, the drumline practices a series of traditions, including a chant, a speech from Deary, and specific handshakes with each person.
“Being a percussion director for the first time at Vandegrift has been such a rewarding experience,” Deary said. “Going into the season, I’m feeling really optimistic and excited about where Vandegrift percussion is right now. The students are incredibly talented and eager to improve, which makes a huge difference in a program’s growth.”
With the season opener down, the Bands of America Austin Regional approaches on Saturday, Sep. 20 at Kelly Reeves Stadium. This marks the beginning of the road to the BOA San Antonio Super Regional in November for the entire band.
“From this season, I want us to build a community of dedication, something that we can all be proud of together,” senior Ansel Wong, front ensemble section leader, said. “For the front ensemble, I want us to cultivate a culture where everyone is included, works hard, and achieves.”
