Rock. Jazz. Folk. Throw in a comedy routine and some musical theatre as well. Open Mic nights are a melting pot of genres, and all are welcome.

Despite the comforts of a small setting, junior Will Guzman said that there has been a noticeable decline in audience size in the past two years.

“When I was a freshman, the first Open Mic I went to was the October Open Mic, and it was packed,” Guzman explained. “Now, everyone can easily get a seat. It’s definitely not as crowded as it used to be.”

According to Guzman, there are many regular attendees.

“I have to say that typically you will see that there are reoccurring people, since everyone is part of the music collective culture,” Guzman said. “And there’s just some standard people that you know will be there.”

Junior Alma Bitran said that although having a small audience creates a more intimate atmosphere, she would prefer a larger audience.

According to Guzman, however, audience sizes do not significantly matter.

“It’s more like you’re practicing performing, because performing itself is really an art,” Guzman said. “I don’t know if it really makes a difference with the size of the audience, but the more the merrier.”

Bitran said that the audience and performances are always diverse at the Open Mic nights.

“As far as music goes, it’s usually either rock or jazz or folk,” Bitran said. “There’s some classical sometimes, too. Sometimes there is some comedy routine or musical theatre every once in awhile,” Bitran said.

Guzman mentioned acts such as a blend of comedy and magic.

“There’s this guy, he’s done this comedy-magic act, which is really cool,” Guzman said. “He told jokes and did magic tricks and that was awesome.”

Junior Rachel Eber said the atmosphere is relaxed, creating a place where you can come and enjoy yourself.

“It’s pretty casual, I would say. There are couches, and people sort of come and go,” Eber said. “It’s a pleasant atmosphere.”

According to Guzman, Open Mics provide a stress-free environment for the performers.

“It’s not a secret judgemental environment. People are just playing music,” Guzman said. “Some are better than others, but it’s all fun. And there’s food and just hanging out. No stress.”

Bitran further described the positive atmosphere, saying that it was supportive and friendly.

“Usually it’s people who already know each other because it’s kind of people who already played open mics here,” Bitran said. “You usually see friends because it’s like BHS’s little music circle.”

Eber said that she valued Open Mics for giving her an opportunity to showcase her passions.
“They were fun,” Eber said. “There aren’t that many outlets to perform music, so it’s a good opportunity to do so.”