Sounds of the Zoo is a multicultural music festival and symposium that seeks to empower and unite artists, industry professionals and music lovers from around the world. We aim to showcase local, regional, national, and international live music performances at a variety of locations throughout the city of Kalamazoo, MI.
Our Team
Volunteer Team
Sounds of the Zoo is powered by an incredible team of volunteers who help bring our festival to life.
Jennifer Hudson-Prenkert
Founder | Director
Jennifer is a dynamic and influential festival director renowned for her exceptional skills in orchestrating high-profile events. With over 25 years of extensive experience in the entertainment industry, she has evolved from a professional dancer to an innovative choreographer, a sought-after booking agent, and a visionary creative director. Jennifer's profound dedication to music and community building is the cornerstone of her career. She is not just a dreamer but a doer, fiercely committed to fostering a robust and supportive community that champions change and empowers artists within the music industry. Her ambitious project, Sounds of the Zoo, is a testament to her leadership and collaborative spirit. Originating from a long-held vision, this festival is now a celebrated reality in Kalamazoo, MI, symbolizing Jennifer's remarkable ability to transform dreams into impactful, community-driven successes.
Festival Gallery
About
Sounds of the Zoo is a multicultural music festival and symposium that seeks to empower and unite artists, industry professionals and music lovers from around the world. We aim to showcase local, regional, national, and international live music performances at a variety of locations throughout the city of Kalamazoo.
We are conscious of the power of knowledge, and seek to accomplish educational goals by offering a series of professional music education courses, presentations/panels, and workshops that will explore a wide variety of music topics designed to empower and inform anyone involved or interested in the music industry.
We endeavor to create change through music and believe music is not only creative art but a means to connect and uplift humanity. We believe music can inspire humanity by creating connections that bridge class, gender and cultural divides. Uniting the community by supporting diversity, inclusion, as well as creating awareness towards environmental sustainability and mental health are core values we will give platforms to.
Through support from the City of Kalamazoo and Private Sponsorships, Sounds of the Zoo is a free event that will take place during the last week of September each year. We are continuing to grow and learn, with Sounds of the Zoo Presents hosting pop ups around the state of Michigan. Sounds of the Zoo will help in making Kalamazoo a music destination city that will create and sustain economic development and growth for years to come. This is a fresh, innovative, and community driven festival to grow right here in Kalamazoo.