Zak Williams is a New Zealand based drummer and percussionist who has completed studying jazz drum set at the Ara Institute. Zak first began drumming at the age of 15, and after teaching himself basic skills, went on to attend professional lessons for the rest of high school. After high school, Zak decided to continue his music studies at a tertiary level and entered the Ara Institute Bachelor of Musical Arts degree, majoring in pop drumming, however during his first year he was exposed to the world of jazz music and decided to switch to the jazz stream. Zak has now graduated from Ara, having spent his final year honing his musical skills with a series of self directed recitals. In July of 2018 Zak travelled to Europe to participate in the Conservatorium van Amsterdam Summer Jazz Workshop, a week long jazz performance intensive that requires an audition and draws participants from all around the world. On this course Zak studied with the great jazz drummer John Reilly and played with jazz musicians from all over the world. In 2019 Zak took part in the Wellington Jazz Festival as a member of the Brad Kang Standards Trio.  Zak also participated in the Nelson Jazz Festival with the great Christchurch piano/organist Tom Rainey. Zak has also made steps on to the musical theatre scene, performing in the band for Third Bear’s production of As You Like It, and the Kirwee Player’s West Side Story.