An Evening of Joy & Resistance with the Kev Choice Legacy Chamber Ensemble

As we look back on the past year – a period marked by deepening division, the unraveling of long-held cultural touchstones, and growing uncertainty about what is real – we look to musicians and creatives who dare to imagine a more united world

History reminds us that music is one of the most potent tools for connection, resistance, and hope. At Zoo Labs, we believe musicians translate emotion into melody in ways that reflect our shared humanity, offering moments that can spark change, nurture healing, and strengthen our communities.

With this spirit, we invite you to join two-time Zoo Labs: FUND awardee, Kev Choice for “An Evening of Joy & Resistance” with the Legacy Chamber Ensemble!

This intimate performance will be led by the legendary M.C., producer, composer, educator, and activist Kev Choice on piano, and feature stellar musicians from his latest project: the Legacy Symphonic Orchestra. Legacy Symphonic is all about representation, access, diversity, and equity – creating space where classical and music of the Black Diaspora coexist—rooted in community, innovation, and authenticity. It is a creative vehicle primarily for Black and underserved musicians, artists, producers, and composers in the orchestral space. It offers the Bay Area its most diverse, community-rooted, and visionary orchestra to date.

Help us start 2026 off on the right note; let’s fill the room with love and the healing powers of music and community!

About Kev Choice:

Oakland, CA artist-educator-activist Kev Choice is a pianist, M.C., producer, composer, and bandleader. His music combines his classical training, heavy roots in Hip-Hop, wit and conscious lyricism, to bring a positive and inspiring message to his unique blend of Hip-Hop, Jazz, Classical, R&B and Soul. Kev has worked and toured the world with the likes of Michael Franti & Spearhead, Goapele, Ledisi, Zion I, Too Short, Souls of Mischief, and The Coup. He served as music director for Ms. Lauryn Hill in 2007. As a performer, Kev has played at events for Barack Obama, Bernie Sanders, as well as Black Panther Party 50th Anniversary Gala, to shows at San Quentin Pr*son. He has production credits with artists such as Wiz Khalifa, Curren$y, Too Short, Elujay, Rexx Life Raj, Damian Lilliard, and more. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music (Piano Performance) from Xavier University of Louisiana and a Master’s Degree in Music (Piano Performance) from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.

About the Series:

Welcome to Zoo Labs Presents —a live music series uniting artists & audiences in a shared mission to empower creativity. This multi-event series showcases transformative performances and experiences curated by talented Zoo Labs artists, exploring how sound and purpose converge to create a thriving creative community. Join us in celebrating music, purpose, and impact.

Also check out other Music events in Oakland, Entertainment events in Oakland, Arts events in Oakland.