Zach Malian

Drummer, Zach Malian is an emerging young musician on the New York City jazz scene today. Growing up in Providence, Rhode Island, Zach was immersed in the rich musical culture of the Boston and New York areas from a young age, sparking his passion for jazz.
His musical journey took him to the New England Conservatory Preparatory School in Boston, where he studied under the guidance of drummer Brooke Sofferman. During his high school years, Zach's dedication was recognized with awards such as the Judge’s Choice Award at the Berklee High School Jazz Festival and the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award. He also had the honor of performing at the renowned Newport Jazz Festival with the RIMEA All-State Jazz Ensemble.
Currently enrolled as a student at the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College, Zach has had the privilege of learning from world-renowned musicians including Kenny Washington, Joe Farnsworth, Matt Wilson, and Jon Faddis, among many others. During his time at Purchase College, Zach was selected as one of only 15 musicians to participate in the esteemed 2023 Ravinia Jazz Grandstand program in Highland Park, IL. At Ravinia, Zach had the opportunity to work with such legends as Rufus Reid, Steve Wilson, and Billy Childs, debuting his original composition, “Roadwork”.
Zach remains a vibrant presence in the jazz scene, engaging in collaborations with a diverse array of artists such as The Octet, Pete Malinverni, Leonid Morozov Trio, and the Andrew Wagner Quartet. In addition to his collaborations, Zach takes pride in highlighting some of Rhode Island’s top musicians through his own ensemble, the Zach Malian Trio.
Through his performances and recordings with these artists, Zach not only refines his craft but also seeks to forge meaningful connections with audiences through his music. Each collaboration offers Zach a unique opportunity to push his artistic boundaries and contribute to the rich tapestry of the jazz genre.

As a tutor, I believe in a student-centered approach, tailoring each lesson to meet the individual needs and goals of my students. My method combines technical skill development, theoretical understanding, and practical application. I focus on:

Fundamentals: Building a strong foundation in drumming techniques, including grip, stroke, and posture.

Musicality: Emphasizing the importance of listening, dynamics, and expression to play musically.

Repertoire: Working on a diverse range of jazz standards and contemporary pieces to broaden the student's musical horizons.

Improvisation: Encouraging creativity and spontaneity through structured improvisation exercises.

Performance: Preparing students for live performances and recitals to build confidence and stage presence.