Max Zaska is a guitarist, songwriter, musical director, and producer best known for his feel-good blend of modern funk, neo-soul, and indie jazz. With his band, ZASKA, Max brought his original songs to life with Ireland’s rising stars, beginning with his first vocalist, Hozier. His critically acclaimed debut album, It Takes A Village, featured over 25 performers, including Wyvern Lingo and Loah.
Named one of Ireland’s best guitarists, Max has a B.A. in Jazz Performance from the prestigious Newpark Music Centre (DCU) in Dublin and had played with jazz legends in Brazil, Italy, and Canada.
During his Navigator residency at Ballina Arts Centre, Max reflected: “I was absolutely delighted to have been chosen for this residency put together by IMC and Ballina Arts Centre. Having a week completely to myself to experiment and explore new concepts in the beautiful surroundings of Ballina was a huge privilege. Alongside developing my own music, I also led a workshop for the local jazz core group and connected with people in the local scene, which was hugely exciting. It was a very special week, and I am thrilled with the new music and concepts that came from it.”
Paul Cunningham said: “We were very much looking forward to welcoming Max to Ballina Arts Centre. We were delighted to work again with IMC to create this unique opportunity for a musician to have the time and space to develop their work. Introducing Max to our audiences and the musical community of Ballina was a highlight. Based on our initial conversations with him, we were confident that the residency would be of enormous mutual benefit and, we hoped, great fun too.”
Max also hosted a guitar workshop. Guitarists from any background were welcome, but it was tailored towards teenagers ages 13–17 who already had a couple of years of playing experience. The aim was to advance their guitar skills by exploring harmony, soloing, and guitar tone and, of course, to have a lot of fun too.
During max’s residency he did a workshop for guitarists of any backround but was tailored towards teenagers ages 13-17 who have already have a couple years of playing experience. The aim is to advance their guitar playing by exploring harmony, soloing, guitar tone and have a lot of fun.