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Music helps us share good times more safely at the zoo

DJs have an important job to do during the pandemic. The music we provide helps us to enjoy life during outdoor social-distancing events. Let me tell you about a few of my favorites.

The Akron Zoo recently held their annual outdoor Summer Safari fundraiser. Attendees enjoyed an evening of animals, food, fun and music while supporting a great cause. Due to the pandemic, social distancing requirements were in place. Masks were worn except when eating. Food and drink stations were spread throughout the zoo. Guests explored the animal exhibits while sampling food from local vendors such as Saffron Patch. I was delighted to have my DJ area just a few steps away from Acme Foods, who were serving Hawaiian tacos. Ticket sales were limited in order to help keep social distancing. What really helped was that attendees and people at home could bid on silent auction items from their mobile device in lieu of the regular live auction and speeches held in the past.

Like in previous years, I energized guests with a DJ set consisting of African rhythms – Afrika Mamas, Ebo Taylor, Ssewa Ssewa and more – with a dash of Latin and Caribbean tunes. People were clearly enjoying the music and the day out. I could see people moving to the beat, and their eyes told me that there were plenty of smiles beneath the masks. This year I provided a sound system right in front of the Komodo Dragon building, as a more cost-effective, low-key alternative more suited for this year’s smaller audience and budget.

Outdoor social distancing events have been very popular and the way to keep active while still following public health guidelines to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. In addition to the Akron Zoo event, I’ve provided sound and/or DJ sets for outdoor church worship services, backyard kid’s birthday parties with less than 10 guests, flea markets and other small events. Would you like to hire me for your outdoor or Halloween event? Creativity and music can help us to re-imagine fun while still caring for each other’s health and wellness. Feel free to email me at kris@kriskochmusic.com to brainstorm options and to reserve your date.