About

SAM FETTIG

Sam Fettig is a Wisconsin-based composer, educator, and saxophonist whose music has been commissioned and performed by ensembles across the United States, with works spanning orchestra, wind ensemble, chamber music, jazz ensemble, and voice. His recent honors include selection as one of ten composers worldwide (from more than 500 applicants) for the composition workshop led by composer and artist David Moliner in Germany, as well as recognition from the European Recording Orchestra, Heartland Symphony Orchestra, and National Flute Association.

Rooted in tonal language with a contemporary sensibility, Fettig’s music emphasizes melodic clarity, structural momentum, and expressive orchestration. His works frequently explore themes of place, motion, wonder, and perspective, inviting audiences into vivid and immediate musical experiences.

As a performer, Fettig is a multi-nominee for the Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) award for the state’s top saxophonist. His performance credits include the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, as well as appearances with Doc Severinsen, Johnny Mathis, Lou Rawls, and Maynard Ferguson.

In addition to his creative work, Fettig is a published author with The Hal Leonard Corporation and serves as a consultant for their educational materials. He has spent more than 25 years in public school music education, and is a Kohl Fellowship nominee (state teacher of the year) and Wildermuth Award winner (local teacher of the year). He remains active as a clinician and speaker.

Fettig holds degrees in music education from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and VanderCook College of Music.

"Your arrangement is awesome...it’s terrific!"

-Dr. Ryan Gardner, DMA, Professor of Trumpet, University of Colorado Boulder

President, International Trumpet Guild, Artistic Director, Music for Autism

I am so thankful for what you have done for our program!"

-Benson Truong, Ockley Green Middle School, Portland, OR

"Sam's piece was a joy to work on and a concert highlight for students and parents!"

-Jessica Kindschi Walter, Martin Luther HS,Greendale, WI

"The concert was a success...the community absolutely loved your pieces"

-Jenny Adam, New Hampton Middle School, IA

Sam was extraordinarily, responsive, flexible, intuitive, fun to work with, and ... extremely fast. He had the first draft of the entire piece done in three days, and we probably spent a total of three weeks on it, but could have finished it faster if I was quicker to respond to his emails. His turnaround on a set of changes was generally one to two days which blew me away. I highly recommend Sam for arranging work.

-Spencer Goad, Kellogg Middle School, Portland, OR

"As a seasoned educator and performer, Sam Fettig is keenly aware of how to address the needs of student musicians at a wide variety of levels and ensembles. His compositions and arrangements are carefully designed, and offer engaging learning opportunities for all!"

-Tom May, Janesville Public Schools (WI)

"Sam really worked with me to adapt the arrangement to OUR group. Sam is a master arranger, he is professional, fast, and can arrange in any style that I need! I can tell that Sam takes pride in every piece he writes. He cares about his pieces getting done effectively, efficiently, and with attention to detail. Sam has great patience. He was very happy to tweak my arrangements until they were perfect!"

-Justin Steger, Music Educator, Fort Atkinson High School

"Sam possesses a remarkable ability to understand and cater to the needs of band directors, assisting them in enhancing their programs. On numerous occasions, I have personally benefited from his arrangements, which he specifically tailored to my requirements.

I highly recommend and endorse Sam Fettig and his services."

-Eric Jacobson, Origin Records recording artist, band leader and educator