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Karol Zabka

Karol Zabka is a New York City based drummer and bandleader whose playing blends straight ahead jazz tradition with a modern, groove centered approach.

About Me

Karol Zabka is a New York City based drummer and bandleader known for his strong time feel, melodic sensibility, and dynamic responsiveness. His work is rooted in the straight ahead jazz tradition while remaining open to contemporary influences and flexible musical settings. Zabka has performed with artists such as Ralph Peterson and Donald Harrison, and has been a member of Ralph Peterson’s Big Band as well as Nikos Chatzitsakos’ Tiny Big Band. As a bandleader, he leads projects ranging from instrumental trios to larger ensembles, with a focus on interaction, groove, and modern interpretations of jazz language. Active on the New York jazz scene, Zabka continues to perform, collaborate, and develop original projects that reflect a deep respect for the lineage of the music while engaging with the present.