This practice of having small groups within the big band began in 1935 when Benny Goodman had a trio in his band that would play when the arrangers and other musicians in his band needed a break. Since that time, it became common for big bands to have smaller groups within (Giddins, p. 378). Giddins, Gary (1998). Visions of Jazz: The First Century. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN0195132416.