Sammy Nestico JAZZ ESSENTIALS Tuesday, March 04, 2025
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
The Blues Machine by Sammy Nestico, Advanced
First written for the Count Basie Orchestra in 1983 and later revised for the Sammy Nestico CD.
A Warm Breeze by Sammy Nestico, Grade 4.5
Set in a laidback swing groove, this chart features a sax chorus, some driving ensemble sections, and solos for trombone, tenor sax, trumpet and piano (suggested solos provided for all). Sammy says that maintaining a solid sense of time will make playing this chart sound more like fun than work. A full-ensemble shout closes out this chart in fine style. Rhythm section parts are partially notated with chords cued.
Skyliner by Charlie Barnet/arr. Sammy Nestico, Grade 5
As a tribute to Charlie Barnet’s signature tune, here is a stunning flag-waver from the master himself. Sammy joined the Charlie Barnet band on trombone in 1946, and he specifically chose this tune to “give it a new suit of clothes.” No solos are required, but this powerhouse features a workout for every section in the band.
Basie – Straight Ahead by Sammy Nestico, Grade 4
As recorded by the Count Basie Orchestra, this bright swing classic opens with an improvised piano solo backed by rhythm section before the whole band jumps on board 28 bars later. Tenor sax and piano carry ad lib solos later on, and the final shout ends with piano playing the simple Basie signature we’ve all come to know and love. Rhythm section parts are partially notated with chords cued.
God Bless the Child arr. Sammy Nestico, Grade 4
Sammy has done a masterful job with this all-time great song. If you have a trombone soloist who doesn’t get featured enough along with a good trombone section, check out this bluesy arrangement.
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About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.
Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!