Zoë de Priester is a Dutch and Surinamese singer with a deep passion for storytelling through music. Over the years, she has performed at venues across the Netherlands, collaborating with ensembles that share her commitment to creating honest and heartfelt musical experiences.
Her love for music began early. Growing up, she was surrounded by the soulful voices of Sam Cooke and Etta James, whose music left a lasting impression on her. Her parents owned a restaurant and music venue, where she experienced live and improvised performances for the first time—sparking her curiosity and laying the foundation for her artistic journey. While she started with piano lessons as a child, it was her discovery of vocal jazz that truly ignited her passion. Listening to legends such as Nina Simone, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, and Billie Holiday, she was deeply inspired by their ability to channel raw emotion into song.
Born on the Caribbean island of Trinidad, Zoë later moved to Groningen in the Netherlands, where she began to explore her musical talents more seriously. She joined the Young Talent Class at the Prince Claus Conservatory for a year, before relocating in 2019 to The Hague to study vocal jazz at the Royal Conservatory of The Hague.
After graduating, Zoë dedicated herself both to teaching and performing. She gave piano and voice lessons to students of all ages, directed a children’s choir at the European School for three years, and worked with private institutions. Alongside teaching, she delved deeper into the Great American Songbook, performing its timeless repertoire with a personal and contemporary approach. Her love for theater and spoken word continues to shape her performances, adding another dimension to her artistry.
Zoë is now pursuing a master’s degree at the University of New Orleans, where she is refining her skills and broadening her creative horizons.
Before moving to the United States, Zoë recorded a collection of jazz standards with her guitar trio. The project, which highlights her artistry, will be released in fall 2025 on the Dutch jazz label Zennez Records.
For Zoë, music is more than expression—it is a way to connect deeply with others. Through her performances, she strives to create space for listeners to reflect, feel, and share in the stories she tells.