Over the past three to four months I have had the pleasure of being part of a small team running an open mic at The Daniel O'Connell Hotel (165 Tynte Street, North Adelaide) every Wednesday from 8:30pm to 11pm.

When I was initially asked to do the gig I had no idea how an open mic could benefit anyone.

I cynically thought that open mics were a way in which a venue could have live entertainment and not pay for it however, as part of the organization crew I was getting paid a fee by the venue so I thought I would give it a go and see what would happen.

My eyes were opened wide by the possibilities.

In a short space of time it has become one of the most popular, well organized open mics on the Adelaide circuit with the reputation of having the best sound. This is something that I am very happy about.

I wanted the night to be more than just an open mic so I started to brainstorm how open mics could of benefit to anyone in the indie music scene no matter what level of skilll and experience.

Here is what I come up with...

1. Open Mics are a great networking opportunity for songwriters, performers and musicians of all experience and skill levels. Everyone gets together in one place with music as a common bond and allows magic to happen

2. It is also a great night out in a relaxed, performer-friendly environment listening to music performed by anyone and everyone. A mixed bag of good and improving performances. You can feel comfort zones being shattered.

For songwriters:

3. You can road-test new material as it is being written (even works in progress if you are daring) and get great feedback from your peers

4. As other singer/songwriters are present you can easily find a songwriting partner

For performers:

5. It is an opportunity to perform in from of an attentive, respectful crowd in which you can promote other shows, get names on a mailing list and sell product.

If you have a band that you are starting and you want to get the vibe happening before your first gig, open mics are perfect for this.

6. If you are looking for other band members networking at an open mic should be one of the thing on your to do list.

7. Most open mic venues have music on other nights so consider your performace an audition for a gig on another night (to date, three performers at the Open Mic @ The Dan have scored paying gigs on other nights there)

Well, thats seven extra benefits of open mics I hadn't thought of until I sat down and did some brainstorming. Can you think of any more?

(Shameless plug alert coming up)

If you are in Adelaide, South Australia and you want a good night out then come along to the...

Open Mic @ The Dan
165 Tynte Street, North Adelaide
Every Wednesday Night
8:30pm-11pm

Until next time,