Mr. Moose & Friends!

Listeners can expect to be indulged in works from the blues, swing, and bebop eras of jazz as well as unique jazz-funk–fusion-infused tunes from chart-toppers, wedding-bangers, and basement-parties across the decades; all performed with inspiration and wisdom learned from studying the great tenor saxophone players like John Coltrane, Sam Rivers, Wayne Shorter, Sonny Rollins, Coleman Hawkins, and Stan Getz, to name a few. Some might say Zak’s musical approach is akin to “acid", or “nu-jazz.” These genres originated in clubs in London during the 1980s and combine elements of funk, pop, soul, and hip hop, as well as jazz and disco.

Mr. Moose & Friends!”: 2 BANDS IN 1 GROUP!

With over 13 years of experience on stage, Hampton hand-picks band members and charts for each performance that are exclusively tailored to the venue and listeners. Zak captivates kids and adults alike with his wild enthusiasm and passion for performing and teaching music. From The Wiggles, Raffi, and The Beatles, to Sonny Rollins, Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, and many more, Zak’s background in jazz and his improvisational style makes each “familiar tune” sound new, fun, and engaging to listeners of all ages.

The Ultimate Fusion of Music, Movement, and Joyful Learning for Children and adults of All Ages!
- Mr. Moose & Friends!, Vermont’s most electrifying kids music performance act, is thrilled to announce their latest series of interactive shows aimed at bringing the magic of music and movement to children and families everywhere.
Combining the infectious energy of jazz, the groovy vibes of funk, the high-octane spirit of rock, and the catchy melodies of pop, Mr. Moose & Friends! offers a one-of-a-kind musical experience that transcends generations. With their dynamic blend kid-friendly adaptations of beloved classics, Mr. Moose & Friends! captivates audiences with their unique sound and engaging performances.
At the heart of the Mr. Moose & Friends! experience is a commitment to joyful learning. Through singalongs, playing along with the band, and dance-alongs, children are not only entertained but also inspired to explore the world around them. Each performance is carefully crafted to foster creativity, curiosity, and a love of music in young minds.
Led by highly trained musicians and educators with years of experience in children's entertainment, Mr. Moose & Friends! delivers a high-energy, family-friendly show that leaves audiences of all ages smiling, dancing, and singing along.
"We believe that music has the power to bring people together and help the unseen and heard, feel loved," says Zak Hampton, founder of Mr. Moose & Friends!. "With Mr. Moose & Friends!, we aim to create an inclusive space where children and families can come together to celebrate the joy of music and movement."
Members include Joe Plotts whom Zak met during their time at Castleton State College in 2009. Together they’ve logged thousands of hours of collaboration and performances together and with some of the region's best artists and sound engineers. Joe plays bass, sings, and plays guitar and synthesizer. Ryan Carney, another Castleton alum and long time friend of both Joe and Zak plays percussion and sings. Sarah Hoch joins the group with her powerful voice and numerous musical talents. Sarah is a professionally trained vocalist as well as a talented clarinet player, among other instruments.

We require cover the from the elements on a level playing surface with lights if at night, and access to power. We require room in front of performance space for dancing.