Last night was our monthly open mic night at the White Horse in Arlesey. A few people were away, but we had a few new faces making their debut. We make up a running order where everyone gets three songs and there were twelve acts on there, with a thirteenth added later when some decided to collaborate.
I was there early to ensure the PA system was sorted out. That gave me a chance for a quick rehearsal with a clarinetist who has been to the acoustic sessions, but not the open mic. She wanted someone to accompany here. We managed three tunes with a guy on cajon (box drum). He also backed me for a song on my own set that comprised two of my own songs. I had to borrow another guitar for some as mine was playing up. I think I need to change the socket as it loses connection at times.
We had some stunning performances and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We have everything from relative beginners to some of professional quality. It's great to hear and play with amazing musicians and singers. The pub was not packed, but there were a few in the audience apart from performers.
I started organising these about a year and a half ago. To start with we didn't have enough performers to do a whole evening and resorted to karaoke, but this time we just about managed to a second set of two songs each before ending after midnight. I had some great backing vocals from the audience on some of my tunes. It's a great feeling. I've not played to a really big audience, but I feel I have enough songs to do a good set if I had to. Just need to get the guitar sorted, but I do plan to get a better one soon anyway.
If you perform at all I encourage you to find a local session to play to an audience. If there isn't one then why not start one? I know a lot of pubs are struggling and would welcome a crowd.
Steem on!
I'm Steve, the geeky guitarist.
I'll buy guitar picks for Steem Dollars
