Larry Smith Jazz Kicks Big Band

The Utah State University Music Department features The Legendary Larry Smith “Kicks Band” as it presents its Fall Concert playing the music of Sammy Nestico. This concert will present a full program focusing on the arrangements and original tunes of Sammy Nestico. Sammy Nestico has written and arranged over 300 selections and best known for known for his compositions and arrangements with the Count Basie Orchestra. From 1970 to 1984 he recorded ten original albums and won four Grammy Awards. His music will leave the audience with a great love of the big bands while focusing on rich melodies and familiar tunes in the various styles of swing, Latin, and funk. Some of the tunes performed that evening will include Wind Machine, Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, Fascinating Rhythm, Tangerine, Sweet Georgia Brown, I’m Beginning to See the Light, The Joy of Cookin’, and A Warm Breeze.

The Kicks Band features guest vocalist Terresa Shreve singing tunes such as That Ol’ Devil Moon and Tangerine, in the vocal stylings of Anita O’Day. Soloists for the evening will include Nik Clark, Danny Hankins, Kelin Gibbons, Greg Wheeler, Jared Saunders, Roger Karen, Brian Baird, and others. This Nesitco focus will include music everyone can enjoy. The concert will be held in the Russell/ Wanlass Performance Hall on the USU campus Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. Please join us for this legendary performance of big band music in this special setting.

Ticket link coming soon!