Lauded as the “Jimi Hendrix of Hammered Dulcimer” by NPR, and "A Force of nature” Max ZT is an innovator of the instrument. Taking his roots from Irish and American folk music, Max has transplanted his compositional techniques to both Senegal, where he studied the Mandinko technique with the Cissoko griot family, and to India, where he received the prestigious AIIS grant to study under the great santoor master Pandit Shivkumar Sharma. His fresh perspective and bold experimentalism have been the backbone to beautiful, complex, and genuine compositions, while his unorthodox playing style has been a pioneering force in revolutionizing dulcimer techniques.

Max has enlivened the conceptual framework of traditional folk music by fusing multi-cultural roots and traditions to create a truly compelling sound.

Max ZT and his band House of Waters have been called “One of the most original bands on the planet,” by NY Music Daily, and have shared the stage with some of the most influential international musical leaders of the century including Pt. Ravi Shankar, Tinariwen, Jon Bon Jovi, Jimmy Cliff, Bela Fleck, Karsh Kale, Snarky Puppy, and more. With their most recent album House of Waters hitting #2 on the iTunes World Music charts, critics are raving. All About Jazz calls the album, “truly mesmerizing. House Of Waters resonates throughout with a true eclecticism drawing its influences from many sources. A rare and beautiful gem.” While Timeout NY states House of Waters is “A sight to behold.”

Max ZT is based out of Brooklyn, New York. He has put out nine albums, and in 2005, won the National Hammered Dulcimer Championship. He's recorded with a vast array of artists across musical genres, ranging from Victor Wooten, to The Goo Goo Dolls, to American Idol Phil Phillips.