— by David Turnoy–
From folk music to country, from jazz to rock and roll and blues, with a dash of poetry thrown in, Saturday night’s first open mic was a big success.
Approximately forty people showed up to enjoy the local talent of Orcas Island. The event was hosted by Gordon Koenig and Mandy Troxell, who not only announced the acts and performed the first song, they also accompanied several performers in need of backing instruments. The instrument of choice was the guitar, but there were also performances on ukulele, piano, baritone sax, and even several songs presented a capella.
Thirteen different acts performed, ranging in age from eleven to seniors. One performing duo of young ladies even traveled from Shaw. As always with performers on Orcas Island, I was impressed by the high caliber of these musicians and our poet.
Paula Capitano provided her famous cookies and punch, and a good time was had by all. It is hoped that this will be the first of many open mic evenings, and we hope to have more locals exhibit their talents in future such events.
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Thanks, David for your review. I couldn’t make it, and am happy it was a success, and fun for all.
Do you think these open mike events should move to the Black Box?, and have them, say 3 times a year?
Thanks, David for the great review.
I was lucky enough to have known about and attended the event. It was a lot of fun. I just wish more people had known about it and joined in. Maybe we can have more publicity (signs about town or more advance news??)
Anyway, the biggest thanks goes to the organizers and the volunteers. Thanks especially to Mandy and Gordon. Great going!
Open mics are a great thing for all musicians: an opportunity for new artists to get used to singing for an audience and singing with sound equipment; a chance for seasoned performers to try out new material; and a chance for everyone to share their love of music and poetry with an enthusiastic and supportive community. It is a win-win, as in turn the audience gets a totally eclectic showcase of local talent. Thanks goes to the Orcas Center for hosting, to the artists for jumping at the chance to share their stuff, and to the audience members who took the time to be a part! Please, let’s do this again (and also, don’t forget the lively open mics at the Lower Tavern & Doe Bay!).
I missed it but I hope there will be more of these. Thank you Orcas Center, Gordon, Anita, and Mandy.