openmikes.org

Ernie runs a great "Open mic." Starts at 9:30pm and everyone gets to do 3 songs (or so.) Thanks, Ernie, for allowing me to come up and do some songs. It has been a long time since I have performed in public. I had a great time and plan on coming out in the future.

Bob Gilley (1/2010)

This open mic night has been going on for almost 5 years now. That is truly unbelievable. I have seen this open mic night go from Ernie Playing all night, to Having 14 people signed up on the list, and everything in between. What makes this open mic night different from other open mics is that Ernie actually takes an active interest in everyone who plays on the stage. Its part of the reason that no one comes out anymore… They all have paying gigs now, thanks largely to playing every week at the stil and getting better in front of an audience that actually cares about what you are doing up there. I would hate to see this open mic disappear, and it doesn't look to me like there is ever a chance of that happening.

J.F. (1/2010)

A beautiful Irish bar with a pretty good house crowd. I was pleased with how full the place was and how varied the talent was. Though nothing much seemed to break the "one guy and his guitar' program, the players were all pretty solid. Ernie, the host, plays a nice mix of covers and originals with his powerful, clear voice and then runs the rest of the night efficiently. Kind of fuzzy sound and not much space for anything more than a duo, but great food and a good time. Made many a local connection. 3 songs-ish, sign up goes quickly at abut 9pm, with Ernie opening the night and slots beginning at around 10pm.

rob ilyAIMY (7/2008)

Ernie Fowler plays favorites and moves people around on the set list which does not make for a good night if you've been waiting to play. Additionally, he's arrogent and often ignores people. There were times where I had to ask four and five times to get on the list only to find out that he's already been signing his favorites up. I love the StiL but wont go there again until Ernie, Berts friend leaves…

Anonymous (1/2008)

OK I went to the open mike last night 12.17.07 and the place was packed! That can be good or bad… most were there to get happy (drink) and chat NOT to listen to acoustic music… that's cool that's their prerogative. So the host Ernie was cool in that he played a quick set and turned it over to the folks on the list BUT come on man… when you have a long list at an open mike that finally cranks up at 9:45 you should limit the performers to 2 songs dude! then if you go through the list start again… I don't for the life of me get why these local O/M hosts don't get this… it does a couple things first it lets everyone get a chance to play… second it is good for business cause they will stay longer which means more drinks sold etc… what this requires though is a host who is "involved" who will quickly get the next performer to be ready by making announcements as to who's on deck etc… and who will quickly help them setup and get it going… I don't mean to be negative but bro… get it together and be a professional or… I'm just saying… oh yeah here's a tip for ya get a damn monitor.The place is LOUD - performers would really like to hear what the hell they're playing up there…

Anonymous (12/2007)

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