Tiger Swing Band to Feature Music by Sammy Nestico
On Friday, August 18, Massillon Tiger Swing Band, Ohio’s oldest High School Football marching band (since 1914), celebrates Sammy Nestico in its home opener half-time show, under direction of Jason Neel.
During his career, Nestico (1924–2021) composed, arranged, or conducted albums for Quincy Jones, Phil Collins, Barbra Streisand, Michael Buble, Natalie Cole, Sarah Vaughan, Toni Tennille, Frank Sinatra, and Bing Crosby. He wrote hundreds of arrangements for school band and jazz band programs. Best known for his arrangements for the Count Basie orchestra, he also arranged music for the United States Air Force Band and led the Glenn Miller Army Air Corps dance band.
Film producer diane estelle Vicari, who is creating a documentary film about Nestico, will be onsite for the game to record the historic performance of the Swing Band’s “Tribute to Sammy Nestico.” The band will play a never-before-performed composition by Nestico, which he wrote specifically for a marching band; it will be featured in the documentary film.
Massillon Museum Executive Director Alexandra Nicholis Coon said, “MassMu initiated the collaboration between Vicari and the Swing Band, seeing the potential to join two legendary forces—celebrating Massillon’s unique marching band tradition, while paying tribute to an incredible American composer.”
Media Contacts:
Alexandra Nicholis Coon • MassMu Executive Director • 330.833.4061 x111
Margy Vogt • MassMu PR Coordinator • 330.844.1525
