Open Mic Tips and Etiquette Suggestions

Welcome to the Open Mic Stage!

Open mics can be magical spaces where songwriters of all levels come together to share their art, support one another, and grow as musicians.

Before You Arrive

Know the Format

Every open mic runs a little differently.

• If the host uses a sheet or lottery, understand that you may not get your preferred spot.
• Be a good sport, support the artists around you, and remember we’re here for the love of music, not for perfect scheduling.
• That said, don’t take a slot if you know you can’t stay for most of the event. It sucks to be last, playing to an empty room, when you listened to and encouraged all those who played before you.
• If the host is interested, they can use this website to host their open mics and the online time slot form, so everyone can know when they will be playing in advance, which is great! Send them a link or show them the site on your phone!

Prepare Your Set

• Have your songs practiced and ready.
• Know your lyrics and chords well enough to stay relaxed, use a stand or tablet if needed.
• Aim to perform with confidence, presence, and connection.

At the Venue

Be a Good Audience Member

• Listen actively ie, put your phone away for most of the night.
• Applaud generously Everyone deserves encouragement.
• Stay for others Don’t just play and leave. Rude.
• Be considerate so keep voices low in quiet rooms, but do meet people, make connections, and build community. Music thrives when the community thrives. Step away and have a conversation with a new or old friend!

On Stage

• Take a few slow breaths before stepping up (4 seconds in, 4 out).
• Remember: anxiety and excitement are almost the same feeling so lean into the excitement.
• Tune your instrument before you’re called, and again on stage if necessary. Nothing derails a performance faster than an easily fixable tuning issue.
• Use good mic technique: stay within about 6 inches, aim your voice toward the mic, and vary your dynamics.
• If your guitar often feeds back, use a simple soundhole feedback reducer; they’re cheap and extremely effective. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=soundhole+feedback+reducer

Handle Mistakes Gracefully

• Everyone slips up! Keep going, smile, laugh it off.
• The audience wants you to succeed, but they don't worry as much as you do, so don't sweat it!

Watch Your Time

• Stick to your allotted time.
• If you’re unsure how many songs you have or your time left, ask the host and accept their answer gracefully.

Final Thoughts

• Open mics are about belonging to something bigger than yourself!
• The Denver songwriting community welcomes you!
• Share your originals often, support each other, and grow together!

“The music is important! But the people are everything!”

See you at the next open mic!

Feel free to leave a comment if you have tips to add.

-Sami, your fellow songwriter