OPEN MIC NIGHTS AT TABLELANDS MUSIC LOVERS.

WHAT IS OPEN MIC?

 

An Open Mic (derived from the expression "open microphone") is a live show at which audience members who are amateur or professional may perform on stage. Typically, as the name suggests, the performer is provided with a microphone which is plugged into our PA system to make the individual's performance loud enough for the audience to hear. The MC (master of ceremonies) may screen potential candidates for suitability for the venue and give individuals a time to perform in the show. These events are focused mostly on music (often singer-songwriters who accompany themselves on guitar).
Less commonly, small groups, such as a small rock band duo/trio may appear, however group performances are uncommon, because of the logistics of loading in and sound checking such a group.
Open Mic Nights are most suitable for aspiring musicians who are most often showcasing ORIGINAL MUSIC, not cover tunes. Performing to backing tracks is not generally regarded as Live Music or Open Mic.

 

HOW MUCH TIME WILL I GET?

 

Open Mic slots are no longer than 30 minutes, inclusive of setup & sound check time. Once your time is up, the PA may be shut off. (There may be a countdown timer in view.)

 

IS HERE ANY COST OR PAY?

 

Open mic nights usually have a very low cover charge and we may hold a raffle with various prizes. (Venues that have no charge are able make revenue from selling alcoholic beverages and food, TML does not.) Performers are not paid, Open Mic nights are regarded as stage practice & promotion for the performer. 

 

I DON'T WANT A SLOT CAN I JUST JOIN IN?

 

Open mic events are not jam sessions, performers are often amateurs who have practiced hard for their time on stage and are usually very nervous, the last thing they want is someone jumping on stage shaking a tambourine, yelling into a spare mic or banging out wrong beats on drums. Unless personally invited by the performer, please keep off the stage.

We highly recommend attending the open mic as an AUDIENCE MEMBER first. The more you know about how it flows, what kind of performers show up & how the room sounds and feels, the better off you’ll be when it’s your turn.

 

WHAT’S MY ACCOMPANIMENT?

 

If you don’t play an instrument to accompany your song, your best bet is to partner up with someone who can play for you. If you don’t know any players, mingling at our open mic nights is a great way to meet them! As recommended earlier, attending as an audience member can be super helpful. Compliment the musicians you enjoy and chat them up! It’s a great way to expand your network and get inspired!

 

  

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?

 

Practice. Practice. Practice. Know your song(s) inside out, so that you’re not focused on the technical stuff when it comes time to perform. You want the freedom to fully express yourself when you’re on that stage, so make sure you’ve done the work ahead of time! Memorize the lyrics (and chords if you’re playing) & know the arrangement. Even though it’s a laid back event, having papers on music stands in front of you or reading from your phone looks tacky…

 

DO I HAVE TO TALK TO THE AUDIENCE?

 

Short answer is no. You can just let the music speak for you. Long answer is, yes….it’s a great time to try out some super basic stage banter. Have a couple one liners prepared to frame your time on stage. For example: “I’m xxxx, and this is a song I wrote called xxxxxx. I hope you like it.”  You should always thank your audience at the end, and it’s also a great idea to thank the host or give a shout out to the other performers of the night.

 

WHAT SHOULD I DO THE DAY OF THE SHOW?

 

Drink lots of water throughout the day, so you’re hydrated in advance. Drinking water right before you sing or during the set just makes you have to pee. There is no pre-booking for Open Mic Nights, you'll need to turn up early to claim your slot & have time to chill. The last thing you want is to be in a rush…this will just add to any anxiety that you might already have. Bring everything you need. As said earlier, only a PA and a mic are provided, so you’ll want to bring your instrument and possibly a small amp to accompany it. Keep it simple, but set yourself up for success in the room.

Drinks are not permitted on stage.  If you must have water nearby to wet a dry throat, we provide a safe place for this.

Inebriated performers may be asked to forfeit their slot until another date.