openmikes.org

Just read the last post calling this arguably one of the best open mics in New England… you'll get NO argument from me! Playing elsewhere at an open mic last week underscored my appreciation for the way this one is run. Respectful of all performers' nerves :), helpful in every way, Robert and Dale know how to make everyone feel at home and READY to play! Whether it's your first time playing in front of anyone except your little brother eavesdropping at the door, or you're a seasoned pro, or anyone in between, this is THE place to play.

Katherine (5/2011)

This is arguably one of the best open mics in New England. It is a true open mic. No host band. Completely fair sign-up and selection (random). The format is two songs per musician. Mostly acoustic format, although some bands have come (it's just a pain to set up with drums etc.). Covers and originals both welcome. Usually 1-2 people per slot, I have seen up to 6. Just bring your guitar, they have mics, DI boxes, you don't even need a patch cord. They also have a beautiful piano on stage ready to go (with vocal mic too). They have 2 stage mics + 2 patch cords ready to go (plus the piano mic), they can bring more if needed. Sound system is absolutely awesome, they'll make you sound like a pro. There's a ready room in the back for tuning or last-minute practicing.

Sign-up starts around 6:30, first slot starts at between 7:00 and 7:10. Robert Haigh is a very good MC, keeps things moving, and usually gets a few chuckles from his brief comments between acts. Definitely quite a few regulars (including the "pirate" who is Jonee Earthquake - a fabulous slide guitar player and real character) who are treated no differently than 1st comers (which is nice). At 8:30 there is a "featured act", usually a recording artist, who plays for 30-45 minutes, the open mic people play before and after that.

Cost is $5 admission, and if you want to drink (it's BYOB) it's an extra $3. They do have wine glasses and corkscrews. They also have a reasonably good snack bar.

They *don't* allow backing tracks, so if you're a vocalist only, you need to find someone who can accompany on an instrument.

One last thing - sometimes there are more people than slots, so if you don't make the list (again randomly drawn), they give you a voucher to get on for sure next month.

Do: Come early, make sure your guitar is tuned beforehand, be ready to play when you're called, be respectful when others play, tip the featured act (a hat gets passed around)

Don't: Use backing tracks, Come late and expect to play, talk noisily during performances, try to stay after you play, give lengthy long-winded intros, forget to unplug when you leave the stage.

Rob (2/2011)

I need an acoustic guitar to accompany my step daughter singing Mine by Taylor swift for this Thu!! Help!!!

Lito (1/2011)

Best open mic I've been to. Silent crowd and very talented people come in. There's also a pirate guy who's usually there.

Tony (1/2011)

This is an AWESOME venue… highly recommended! Played there for about 7-8 months

Meredith (11/2010)

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