Live Music & Entertainment Coachella Valley

Palm Swings

A modern swing band from Palm Springs bringing new energy to classic swing through live performances, events, and original arrangements.

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Our Services

Live Music & Entertainment

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High-energy swing music perfect for dance nights, bringing modern flair to classic swing rhythms that get crowds moving.

Event Entertainment

Live swing entertainment tailored for private events, weddings, parties, and gatherings across the Coachella Valley.

Production Show

A full-scale swing production featuring themed arrangements, coordinated sets, and an engaging, polished performance.

Dining/Cocktail Entertainment

Smooth, sophisticated swing music that creates the perfect atmosphere for dining rooms, lounges, and cocktail hours.

ABOUT US

Live Music & Entertainment

Palm Swings is a modern swing band born in Palm Springs, California, created by a group of teens who share a deep love for classic swing. The band’s mission is to bring swing back into today’s world through live performances and social media, blending covers from the 1990s–2000s swing revival with original arrangements that capture the same energy in a more modern, creative style. Inspired heavily by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Palm Swings was officially established in 2024 and has already been recognized as the “Audience Favorite” at McCallum Theatre’s annual Open Call talent competition.

Our Members

AJ Wilder is the founder of Palm Swings and serves as the band's lead and screamer trumpet player. His primary instrument is piano, as he’s been trained with 10+ years of experience. Over time, AJ developed a deep appreciation for the trumpet and has grown into a passionate and dynamic performer. Music has always been a powerful force in his life, and his love for it continues to evolve with every passing year. He has a particular passion for swing music, drawing inspiration from groups like Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. Motivated by the joy and energy their performances brought him, he founded Palm Swings with the goal of delivering that same excitement to audiences. His musical influences include acclaimed trumpet players such as Adam Rapa, Wayne Bergeron, Wynton Marsalis, Glen Marhevka, and Mitch Cooper. With a clear vision and unwavering dedication, AJ looks forward to the future of Palm Swings and is excited to continue this journey alongside his talented bandmates.

Drake Leuschner, is a dedicated saxophonist whose musical journey began at the age of seven with guitar lessons. At eleven, he discovered his true passion— the saxophone—and has since devoted himself fully to mastering the instrument.

Drake's commitment to music is reflected in his daily practice and deep engagement with jazz, drawing inspiration from legends such as Charlie Parker, Michael Brecker, Eric Marienthal, and Hank Mobley. Fulfilling a long-held dream of forming a band outside of school, Drake is proud to be a part of Palm Swings and considers it a defining chapter in his musical journey. He’s currently pursuing his bachelors in saxophone performance.

Zack Blandon-Smalaj is the trombone player for Palm Swings. Zack has been playing trombone since the age of 11. His musical journey includes a notable early achievement—participating in the California All-State Symphonic Band at just 13 years old. His years of ensemble experience are being in jazz/big band groups. In addition to his musical pursuits, Zack will be attending Rice University to study Mechanical Engineering. Despite his academic focus, he remains committed to Palm Swings and plans to continue contributing to the band's future projects and performances.

Malakai Wilder is the pianist for Palm Swings. He began playing piano at the age of five and has since expanded his musical abilities to include the violin, alto and tenor saxophone. Malakai brings a strong background in solo performance to the group setting of Palm Swings. For Malakai, joining Palm Swings has been a rewarding transition from solo work to collaborative musicianship. He draws inspiration from legendary musicians such as Gordon Goodwin, Bud Powell, and Art Tatum. Looking ahead, Malakai is excited about the band's momentum and envisions continued success, with hopes that Palm Swings will one day reach audiences around the world.

Brandon Baez is the alto saxophonist for Palm Swings. While he is a versatile player capable of performing on baritone, tenor, and soprano saxophones, alto remains his preferred instrument.

For Brandon, one of the most rewarding aspects of being in Palm Swings is witnessing the audience's reaction and energy during each performance. He is currently pursuing his bachelors in saxophone performance, as well as participating in college jazz combos.

Nathan May, plays both baritone saxophone and clarinet for Palm Swings. He began his musical journey in sixth grade with the clarinet and expanded his repertoire by taking up the baritone saxophone during his sophomore year of high school. Since then, he has performed with a variety of groups, with Palm Swings standing out as both his favorite and most rewarding ensemble. Although he is pursuing neuroscience, he still plans to continue his life of musical

performance.

Shanti Wilder, the female lead vocalist of Palm Swings, has been singing since the age of five and brings over a decade of passion and dedication to the stage. Joining the band has been both a blessing and a dream come true, giving her the chance to grow as a performer while collaborating with talented musicians. With her natural talent, and enthusiasm for jazz/swing, Shanti brings warmth, energy, and charm to every performance.

Lily Rialon is the bass player for Palm Swings. She picked up the bass at the age of 13 and with extraordinary perseverance she quickly became a talented self taught bassist. She first drew inspiration from her favorite charts, from alternative rock to the world of jazz. Ever since then, listening and playing the genre on her bass has become a daily ritual for her. She is currently pursuing a degree in jazz performance.

Jude Shields is a bari sax/clarinetist for Palm Swings. He began playing piano at the age of seven, building a strong musical foundation that later led him to explore other instruments. Going into middle school, Jude picked up the saxophone, which quickly became a central part of his musical identity. During his freshman year, he expanded his range further by learning the clarinet, deepening his understanding of tone, harmony, and ensemble playing. Rooted in the jazz tradition while always looking to grow, he is deeply dedicated to the art of music and continually works to refine his sound, technique, and expression both as a soloist and as a band member.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do you travel outside Southern California?

Yes. While we are based in the Coachella Valley, we travel throughout Southern California and can accommodate out-of-area performances upon request.

What types of services do you offer?

We offer a range of services tailored to each client. Our main options are listed on this website, but if you don’t see exactly what you need, just contact us and we’ll let you know how we can help.