Samuel Heitmiller is a seasoned percussionist with over eight years of experience, specializing in drumset performance. With a passion for music that knows no bounds, Samuel has showcased his talent at numerous festivals, recitals, and concerts, leaving audiences mesmerized by his rhythmic prowess. From his sophomore year of high school onward, Samuel has dedicated himself to honing his craft and has since become a recognized professional in the local music scene. Whether he's captivating audiences with his dynamic drumming or collaborating with fellow musicians, Samuel Heitmiller continues to leave an indelible mark on the community.
Jayden Kennedy is a trumpet and flugelhorn player with over eight years of experience. Jayden has won several awards over his time playing, including the top symphonic and jazz awards at Jefferson High School when he graduated. He traveled to state several times, taking home gold medals and Outstanding Soloist awards each time at jazz events and the annual ISSMA solo & ensemble contest. He was apart of the Jefferson Marching Band when they won 1st place at state championship in 2019. He has loved music since his childhood, and gained a particular interest for jazz in the 7th grade when he first joined the Tecumseh jazz band. Ever since he first tried soloing over Bb blues, he knew this was his passion. Studying with many great musicians over the years, such as Bruce Knepper, Rico Moser, Jarrard Harris, and more, he continues to study and pursue his love of trumpet and music.
Jayden is no stranger to the Lafayette area, playing in several groups as well as solo gigs. He played in Young Brass Society, currently plays in Cougar Candy and the Lunch Ladies, and of course Palace Kat. He also plays in Purdue Bands and the Lafayette Citizens Band. He occasionally plays local church gigs, and has played with the Kokomo park band as well. He simply loves to play music and share his passion with others
A longtime harmony lover, Luke Darland has been playing piano ever since he could reach the keys. After graduating high school, he started branching out towards other electronic instruments and keyboards; learning about patch programming and sound design has pushed him to where he’s at now. He also loves composing and arranging, and has been honing those skills for over 7 years, writing arrangements for big bands and small combos as well as writing tunes for Palace Kat. Luke hopes to push more young people to expand their musical horizons, and thinks people of all ages should strive for creative self-expression and liberation. He believes consuming all types of art is imperative to having a fresh outlook on the world around you, and will help you live a happier and longer life.
Indiana-based Griffin McAtee is a music-lover and saxophonist with over 8 years of experience. First captivated by the saxophone after listening to Maceo Parker on James Brown's "I Got You (I Feel Good)," he knew that the saxophone was the instrument for him. He has been gigging professionally since 2021. Griffin is a part of numerous groups across the state of Indiana, from Monticello's Shipp of Fools, with over 3 million streams on Spotify to Palace Kat in Lafayette and the top jazz ensemble, Jazz 1, at Ball State University. He is a jazz student of Sean Imboden and Mark Buselli at Ball State University. Griffin loves to share his never-ending love for music with the world and hopes to bring jazz to a younger audience.
Lafayette, IN
info@palacekat.com