2023 – A Salute to Sammy Nestico

On Friday, August 18, 2023, the MTSB performed “A Salute to Sammy Nestico” during halftime of the Massillon vs Valdosta (GA) game. Sammy was a prolific composer/arranger most notably with the Count Basie Orchestra. He also wrote hundreds of arrangements for school band and jazz band programs that are still being used around the world. A documentary of Sammy’s life and influence on students of all ages is currently in the works. The film crew recorded the bands halftime performance, including the debut of “We Can Do It (if we try)”, which Sammy wrote specifically for the movie. Later this year, the Swing Band will take to the studio to record the song for inclusion in the documentary.

Following the traditional halftime “Opening Routine” of Fanfare, Tiger Rag, and Carry On, the band performed three pieces that Sammy wrote:

• Good News
• 88 Basie Street
• We Can Do It (if we try)

Learn more about Sammy Nestico:

• Sammy Nestico on Wikipedia
• Sammy Nestico Music
• Sammy Nestico Film – “Never Let Anyone Steal Your Dreams”
• Sammy Nestico Documentary on Facebook
• Learn how the Tiger Swing Band became involved