A seasoned drummer, music educator, composer, and the founder of the highly respected Ong Drum Studio. With over 30 years of experience and a deep family legacy in music, William continues to influence and inspire a new generation of drummers.
His passion for music began early, studying drums under his father, Joseph Ong—a jazz percussionist and former faculty member at The Ohio State University. William’s grandfather, L.B. Ong, was a professional tap dancer and drummer during the Big Band era, making rhythm a generational tradition.
William’s training includes private instruction from notable educators like Phil Shipley of the Columbus Symphony and mentorship at Fort Hayes Arts Academy, where he studied music theory, history, business, and recording. As a teen, he regularly sat in on college-level jazz sessions at OSU, sharpening his performance chops and musical versatility.
After high school, William led and taught the Beechcroft Drumline, then transitioned to full-time gigging and private instruction. He continued his development through advanced training with Steve Dodge (Columbus Pro Percussion), and masterclasses with world-class drummers including Steve Gadd, Thomas Pridgen, Akira Jimbo, and Zach Danziger.
As a performer, William has toured across North America with the math rock band SRVVLST and played alongside a diverse lineup of artists such as Medeski Martin & Wood, Tera Melos, Anthrax, Joan of Arc, and The Melvins, among many others. His adaptability across genres—from jazz and experimental to hardcore and indie—has earned him a reputation as a dynamic and reliable drummer.
