Are you an artist and thinking where is an open mic night near me? Are you new to open mic nights or a regular and looking for a new venue to play in? Today, we are going to explore what exactly an open mic night is, what you need to do to perform at one and where are the best ones in the UK. We are going to cover the best open mic nights in the UK.
Before you know it, you will have signed up for the next one in your area and be taking the world by storm. So, if you have ever asked yourself, what are the best open mic nights near me, then keep reading for more!
What Is An Open Mic Night?
An open mic night is where an artist can perform a set of their tracks for a certain amount of time. It could take place every week or month. The type of venue will determine how long you will get to perform. It will be great exposure for you as an artist and of course to just get your music heard by an audience.
Open mic nights will usually take place in cafes, bars or other public venues. Of course, it is not just music open mic nights that are available to artists. There are plenty of poetry nights that you can sign up for, as well as those for bands and solo artists.
How Do You Perform At An Open Mic Night?
As an artist, to perform at an open mic night, you typically need to sign up in advance, prepare your performance (such as practising your music), and bring any necessary equipment or instruments. It’s also important to be respectful of the other performers and the venue’s rules and guidelines.
As long as you have a set list and know exactly what you will be performing, then the rest is up to you. Enjoy the experience and if you like the venue, they may ask you back for another night to perform.
The Benefits Of Performing At Open Mic Nights Near Me
Performing at open mic nights, especially local ones, can provide several benefits to artists, such as gaining exposure, building a fanbase, networking with other artists and industry professionals, receiving feedback on their performances, and improving their stage presence and overall skills as a performer. Additionally, open mic nights can offer a low-pressure environment for artists to try out new material and experiment with their performances.
UK Open Mic Nights
If you are on the lookout for open mic nights which are local to you, you can always use this website to keep up-to-date.
The Best Open Mic Nights Near Me In London
Are you local to London and need to find an open mic night pronto? We have got you covered and we think these are the best venues to reach out to as an artist to get you started. Maybe you have already heard of them.
The Finery
If you are an indie artist, this is a perfect venue for you to perform at. It is a friendly and supportive place to start out and they encourage all the acts to stay and watch the other artists. It is not a competition and they want everyone to have a good night, so be respectful of other performers too.
Where & When?
MONDAY @ 7:00 PM in The Finery / MAYFAIR / MARYLEBONE / SOHO
23 GREAT CASTLE ST, LONDON, W1G 0JA
If you follow the Updates Group, you will be kept in the loop for this and all open mic nights.
All Styles & Experiences are welcome
Music starts at 7:30 pm. Check-in and walk-up sign-up on the night is from 7:00 pm but we highly recommend reserving your slot in advance:
Reserve Your Slot Now:
N.B. All slots are 10 minutes each (e.g. two songs), which includes your set-up time!
Reserve your single * desired slot by clicking the “Select A Date” button and selecting your preferred date, or the green “Register” button
Arrive by 7:20 pm to be checked in by the host
Enjoy the music and play when it’s your turn!
Nearest Tube & Train
Oxford Circus; Bakerloo, Central, Victoria (3 minutes walk)
Bond Street; Elizabeth line, Central, Jubilee (5 minutes walk)
The Plough
Where & When?
SUNDAY @ 6:00 PM in BLOOMSBURY / FITZROVIA / HOLBORN / EUSTON / COVENT GARDEN / SOHO
27 MUSEUM STREET, LONDON, ENGLAND, WC1A 1LH
If you follow the Updates Group, you will be kept in the loop for this and all open mic nights.
All Styles & Experience welcome
The music starts at 6:30 pm. Check-in and walk-up sign-up on the night is from 6:00 pm but we highly recommend reserving your slot in advance:
Reserve Your Slot Now:
N.B. All slots are 10 minutes each (e.g. two songs), which includes your set-up time!
Reserve your single * desired slot by clicking the “Select A Date” button and selecting your preferred date, or the green “Register” button
Arrive by 6:20 pm to be checked in by the host
Enjoy the music and play when it’s your turn!
Nearest Tube
Holborn; Central and Piccadilly Lines (6 minutes walk)
Tottenham Court Road; Northern and Central Lines and TFL Rail (6 minutes walk)
Marlborough Arms
Where & When?
TUESDAY @ 7:00 PM in Marlborough Arms / BLOOMSBURY / FITZROVIA / EUSTON / SOHO / RUSSELL SQUARE
36 TORRINGTON PLACE, LONDON, ENGLAND, WC1E 7LY
If you follow the Updates Group, you will be kept in the loop for this and all open mic nights.
All Styles & Experience welcome
The music starts at 7:30 pm. Check-in and walk-up sign-up on the night is from 7:00 pm but we highly recommend reserving your slot in advance:
Reserve Your Slot Now:
N.B. All slots are 10 minutes each (e.g. two songs), which includes your set-up time!
Reserve your single * desired slot by clicking the “Select A Date” button and selecting your preferred date, or the green “Register” button
Arrive by 7:20 pm to be checked in by the host
Enjoy the music and play when it’s your turn!
The Blues Kitchen
Where & When?
SUNDAY @ 6 PM in BLUES KITCHEN / CAMDEN
111-113 CAMDEN HIGH ST, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM
One of the most well-known jam sessions in London is held in this Camden venue every Sunday from 6 pm. It’s called The Best Blues Jam In The World. This restaurant/bar is open to all types of performers from drummers to guitarists to vocalists. Artists also get a chance to play along with the Blues Kitchen’s incredibly multi-talented in-house band, The Beekays.
Closest Tubes
Camden Town; Northern Lines (5-minute walk)
Best Open Mic Nights Near Me In Manchester
The Whiskey Jar
Where & When?
TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY @ 7 PM in THE WHISKEY JAR / MANCHESTER
14 TARIFF STREET, MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM
The Whiskey Jar is without a doubt one of the best showcases of new live music in Manchester. This bar’s open mic night stands out because of its laid-back vibe and warm wooden interiors.
The Whiskey Jar also has its own musical space which can be rented, The Still, which features many musical acts on a regular basis. It’s also a great place if you’re thinking of filming a live concert or music video. The whiskey on offer doesn’t hurt either.
Now running for 8 years and renowned for being the best open mic in the UK, this weekly show runs 2/3 times a week and is one you have to see if you’re a fan of live music, or equally want to find out who are the best up and coming musicians in the city are.
It’s free to come in, grab a drink and lend your ears to great talented musicians from all over Manchester.
The Bay Horse Tavern
Where & When?
THURSDAY @ 8 PM in THE BAY HORSE TAVERN / MANCHESTER
35-37, THOMAS STREET, M4 1NA
This open mic is hosted by award-winning singer-songwriter Izzie Walsh every Thursday night at The Bay Horse.
Head down from 8 pm for a chance to see some of the best musical talent that Manchester has to offer.
There’s also £5 G&Ts from 10 pm.
How To Become An Opening Act For Major Artist At Open Mic Night Near Me
An opening act at a gig is a performer or group that performs before the main act or headliner. Their purpose is to warm up the audience and set the tone for the rest of the show.
To become an opening act for a major artist at an open mic night, you should first research the open mic nights in your area and find out which ones feature major artists as headliners. Then, you should contact the organizers of those open mic nights and inquire about the process for becoming an opening act.
This may involve submitting a demo or auditioning in person. It’s also important to have a strong and polished performance to increase your chances of being selected as an opening act.
The length of an opening act at a gig can vary, but it is typically between 20-45 minutes.
Open Mic UK
Open Mic UK is a music competition and talent search for aspiring singers, songwriters, and musicians in the United Kingdom. It provides a platform for artists to showcase their skills and gain exposure in the music industry. The competition is open to all ages and genres, and participants have the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience and a panel of industry professionals.
Winners of the competition receive a range of prizes, including recording studio time, music equipment, and performance opportunities. Open Mic UK also offers workshops and masterclasses to help participants develop their skills and knowledge of the music industry.
Vocal Tips For Singers
As a singer, there are several vocal tips that can help you improve your singing and protect your voice. Here are some important tips!
- Warm up your voice before singing. This can include breathing exercises, humming, and vocal exercises to loosen up your vocal cords.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your vocal cords lubricated and prevent them from becoming strained.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These can damage your vocal cords and affect your singing ability.
- Practice good posture. Standing up straight and keeping your shoulders relaxed can help you breathe more easily and sing with better support.
- Don’t strain your voice. Pushing your voice too hard or singing outside of your comfortable range can lead to vocal fatigue and damage.
- Take breaks. Resting your voice between singing sessions can help prevent strain and fatigue.
- Work with a vocal coach. A professional vocal coach can help you identify areas for improvement and develop a personalized training plan.
By following these tips, you can improve your vocal technique and keep your voice healthy for years to come.
Here is a video which will take these tips a little further.
Artist Development & Open Mic Nights Near Me
Artist Development
Performing at open mic nights is a great way to practice your singing live and hone your skills as a performer, but there are also other ways to help elevate your craft. Artist development sessions are a great way to work on your craft and elevated your skills as a performer.
With artist development, you can get feedback and advice from industry artist managers who are experienced in helping artists see their strengths and areas for improvement. This involves understanding your identity as an artist, both in terms of sound and visuals.
Artist Development involves identifying your future direction, regardless of your current level. This could involve collaborating with a professional from the industry to enhance your songwriting or production skills. Similarly, it can assist in boosting your promotional strategies by pinpointing what sets you apart.
Music Promotion
Promotion is also crucial for the success of an open mic night because it helps attract performers and audience members. Effective promotion strategies can include creating social media posts, flyers, and posters to advertise the event. Additionally, reaching out to local media outlets, such as newspapers and radio stations, can help spread the word to a wider audience.
Building partnerships with local businesses and organizations can also help increase visibility and attendance. By promoting the open mic night, organizers can create a buzz around the event and generate excitement, which can ultimately lead to a successful and memorable evening for all involved.
If you are looking for assistance with promoting your music before an open mic night or just in general, then you can always get in touch with us at Music Gateway. We really look forward to hearing from you and listening to your music.
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