11.01.07
Open Mic Resources
As a budding performer it can be frustrating to know how to get your music heard. As cliché as it may seem, Open Mics are a great place to get your “performance feet” under you. Open Mics can be, depending on the venue, very relaxed like a living room setting, or more performance oriented. The only way to know for sure about a certain Open Mic dynamic is to visit the venue during an Open Mic and check it out.
A list of Open Mics for the Seattle-area can be found at
www.songspace.net
And how should you act during an Open Mic? Here are some general guidelines:
Don’t assume the venue will provide anything. Obviously, if you need a sound system and you don’t have your own you will stop into or call the venue beforehand. Just because they have a system, however, don’t assume they’ll have all the cords and hookups you need. Also, if you need other accouterments like a table or music stand bring those, too.
Arrive early to sign up. There will be a sign up sheet, often near the stage, that will open usually 15-20 minutes before the Open Mic is to begin. If you can’t find it, ask around. Most Open Mics have a Host who will answer questions and MC throughout the evening. While some Open Mics will do random selection to determine the order of performance, many will give you time slots to choose from. Getting there early ensures that you won’t be stuck with the unpopular “first time slot.” Make sure to print your name clearly, don’t leave them guessing on what to call you.
Be polite and listen to the other performers Open Mics are a good networking opportunity with other musicians - don’t shoot yourself in the foot by being rude to possible future collaborators. With this in mind, give the other performers the same listening courtesy you expect. Don’t hum along, practice your song, or snicker under your breath. And try not to split as soon as your set is done - stick around and hear what everyone else has worked hard to put together.
When your name is called, go to the stage and set up quickly. Open Mics are, ultimately, time-sensitive. Everyone is waiting for their few minutes in a set block of time. Lollygagging up to the stage cuts into yours and other people’s time slot. Be considerate - get to the stage and set up.
Keep speaking to the necessary minimum. Obviously, some songs need some background introduction - just keep it short and sweet.
Have a few songs ready. The number of songs you will perform is directly related to how many people sign up. If there are two people playing that night you’ll probably be able to play for a while. If there are 20 people signed up, you’ll get 3 minutes. Be prepared for anything in between.
Keep calm and relax! Sure it’s a performance, but Open Mics are purposefully casual. If you mess up it’s not a big deal, just keep playing. Most of all cut yourself some slack - at least you’re up there doing what you love!
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