“In the Library of the Congress, the Sammy Nestico Archive sits beside the archives of Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, Gerry Mulligan and George and Ira Gershwin, as it should be. Sammy Nestico and his music are a National Treasure.”                     – Loras Schissel, Library of Congress.

Beginning in the roaring 1920's through the 21st century, Sammy Nestico changed the world "one note at a time.” From the streets of Pittsburgh to the White house to achieving Hollywood stardom, the dreams of a poor Italian-American immigrant’s son are fulfilled.

In October 2001, I was invited as a filmmaker to document  “music history in the making," at Capitol Studios in Hollywood, CA.

At 77 years old, the Maestro Sammy Nestico’s dream to self-produce and record his own "big band" album came true. For most of his 60 year career, Sammy lived in the shadows of musical icons.  On that day, I witnessed the Maestro step onto the podium to conduct Hollywood's finest musicians. His unassuming demeanor transformed into a captivating and powerful force to be reckoned with. From his first downbeat the magic became palpable.

I immediately fell in love and began to document the next two decades of Sammy’s life, following him around the world, recording, conducting and teaching.   

In January 2021 at the age of 96, Sammy left us. Throughout our journey, the Maestro continually reminded me and countless others to, "Never let anyone steal your dreams.  If I can do it so can you!” 

As we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Maestro in 2024,  it is the perfect time to complete SAMMY NESTICO: This is The Moment