Born in Atlanta and raised in the Smyrna/Mableton area, I now call Acworth, Georgia home. I got my first guitar as a kid (which unfortunately didn’t survive being thrown off the roof of a playhouse), but I started playing seriously around 13 after being inspired by my cousin’s love of rock music. From then on, I was hooked.

My musical tastes are all over the map. I grew up on ’90s grunge and alternative, which led to a love for emo and pop-punk in the early 2000s. When people ask about my favorite bands, I usually say The Beatles and Weezer, but I enjoy anything with a great melody.

I’ve played in several bands over the years, most notably the pop-punk band Waving at Strangers, where I spent two years touring the country in an RV. These days, I mostly perform solo acoustic shows. After a five-year break from playing live, I joined Kitty and the Cats to reconnect with something that’s always been part of who I am. I’m excited to make music with such talented musicians and know they’ll challenge me to become a better player.

Away from the stage, I’m in my 22nd year as a Social Studies teacher. Whether I’m hiking, spending time with my special friend and family, or enjoying the outdoors, I’m happiest making memories with the people who matter most.

Born in Huntsville, Alabama, my family moved to Smyrna, GA when I was 6 months old, so Smyrna, GA is my home. Raised on 50's country (Dad) and BeeGees, Stix, and Kiss (Mom), but been a fan of piano ... Billy Joel, Elton John, love a lot of grunge music in the 90's too. Favorite songs,... Scenes from an Italian Restaurant (Billy Joel), Tonight (Elton John), Bad, Bad, Leroy Brown (Jim Croce), Fell on Black Days (Soundgarden). I'm a vocalist first and foremost and have been singing my whole life. Play piano, played trumpet and French horn in middle school, guitar and ukelele.

Took piano lessons when I was 9 for about a year and have been playing it for fun ever since and learning as l go... 45 years. We are bringing and singing our favorites and I love the diversity we bring representing a little of everything and mostly positive and fun songs sung by different voices.

I want us to continue to love what we are doing and enjoy the collaboration with others who appreciate great music.

Born in Atlanta, GA, but grew up in the MidWest a passionate fan of music since I discovered the Beatles at 7 years of age. I grew up in the 80s and love the music from that period, tend towards the "heavier" side of rock music. All-time favorite song is You've Got Another Thing Comin', by Judas Priest (who still puts on an amazing show) 

Favorite bands are Bad Omens, Ice Nine Kills, Slipknot, and Sleep Token. Still love the classic rock of the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Dabbled in guitar and bass but for the most part as a vocalist. Studied voice and theater at the University of Kansas and spent most of the 90s as vocalist for a progressive metal band Flux (https://soundcloud.com/matt- gunnin/sets/flux).

After 25+ years, I'm excited to return to playing live music with Kitty and the Cats. They're a great group of musicians and play the classic songs...except for the heavy metal, of course! I'm looking forward to growing as a musician with this band and bringing some fun, classic rock to Smyrna, GA!

My musical journey failed to launch at age eight with three futile piano lessons but took flight in fifth grade on the saxophone. I think I've always been a performer - whether as the class clown, or as a musician. 

A very patient and supportive band director tolerated the clown and encouraged the musician. (Thank you Mr. Vanveld) Dreaming of a career in music was an aspiration from high school. I endeavored to master multiple instruments, but I never reached the proficiency required to pursue it professionally. That, though, has never dampened my love for music.A love that has no bounds. It crosses all genres. I cut my teeth on big band jazz and rock and roll, but if there's a part for a saxophone in the hillbilly-est bluegrass, or the twangy-est country music ... I'm down! 

Kitty and the Cats is such a great opportunity for me. To play our great variety of music, and to be in the company of such incredible talent is a true blessing.