Easy to Love (arr. Sammy Nestico): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Nestico's hand is evident in every phrase here: the saxophones get genuinely interesting material without overshadowing the ensemble, and the overall texture remains warm and unified throughout. This is the kind of arrangement that teaches students what good jazz ensemble writing actually sounds like.

Sophisticated yet unpretentious, with a smooth mid-tempo swing that feels both classic and immediately listenable. The saxophones shine while the rest of the band provides a rich, cohesive foundation.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level who want to program a recognizable standard without the complexity of solos. This works beautifully for groups developing their swing feel and ensemble blend.

• Nail the pocket from the start. Swing feel lives or dies on rhythmic precision in the rhythm section, so lock the groove early in rehearsals and revisit it often.
• Balance the saxophone feature against the rest of the band. They're carrying the melody, but they shouldn't overpower; think support rather than solo.
• Shape the phrasing collectively. When the whole ensemble hits a landing point, make sure the cut-off is clean and intentional.
• Let the medium swing tempo breathe. Rushing strips the swagger from the arrangement; patience and pocket are your friends here.

This pairs naturally with other Porter standards or classic Broadway jazz arrangements in a concert focused on American songbook repertoire. It's substantial enough to anchor a set without demanding the performance intensity of a high-energy closer.

• Swing feel and pocket (medium tempo)
• Section balance and blend within jazz voicings
• Reading jazz chord symbols and comping figures
• Phrasing as an ensemble unit
• Interpreting Nestico's articulation and dynamic markings