Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served during the Interval. Each of the 'Turns' will be followed by a subsequent short discussion, the emphasis being on encouragement. Doors open at 2pm for a prompt 2:10 pm start.

It would be most helpful if anyone interested in taking part or spectating would please contact the Group Leader via the 'Coordinator' link above.

Commencing Wednesday 16th Sept and then the third Wednesday of each month.

October 2026 Session.

Following a frantic search for the well hidden contact point, from which the piano lead plugs into the wall, our second Open Mic set off after a slight delay. A special thank you to Gordon for locating said point!

We were treated to poetry, a book reading by the author, a story telling, two piano players, a hymn and a reading on the benefits of attending an open mic including: ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ 

• Reduces isolation: Being in a room filled with people sharing a mutual experience creates a sense of "collective effervescence," (that’s a word we don’t hear so often these days) reminding you that you are part of a community. 

• Fosters belonging: Casual in-person interactions, such as chatting about a performance or sharing a cup of coffee, boost mood and strengthen social bonds and we can do this now we’ve moved the Refreshment time to the Interval.

And, my favourite:

• Encourages supportive spaces: Many local open mic events are designed to be non-judgmental environments where people feel safe to perform.

Stress Relief and Brain Chemistry

• Lowers stress hormones: Experiencing live music and creative expression helps reduce cortisol levels in the body. 

• Releases feel-good chemicals: Live performances and shared artistic moments stimulate the release of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which elevate mood and lower anxiety. 

• Promotes mindfulness: Focusing on a live performance anchors you firmly in the present moment, offering a mental break from daily worries. 

• Provides a creative outlet: Even as an active listener, engaging with poetry, comedy, or music helps you process complex emotions that everyday words might fail to capture. 

• Boosts Confidence and Purpose: Attending an event offers a deep sense of meaning, accomplishment, and personal empowerment. 

Finally, my 'other' favourite:

• Encourages Catharsis: Facilitating artistic expression—whether through music or poetry, helps release built-up emotional tension and stress. 

To summarise, 

We aren’t always going to be here living, but we might just as well always allow ourselves, whilst here, to ‘be’ living.

And that last bit was mine!

The Interval refreshments were much appreciated, this time with chocolate cake!

As is usual, Alan takes a few photos to give an over all view of the session and these are shown below.

Our next meeting is Wednesday 18th November where doors open at the slightly later time of 2pm for a 2.10 prompt start.

Should you wish to come along and have a go at at playing a short piece of music or reading, then I can you put down as a reserve for the November meeting or, for a slot at the December one.

Hilary Hughes

Images:

1. Marcia explains the merits of playing by ear following an Improvised Piece of Piano Playing.

2. The Frantic Search!

September 2026 Session:

Our first Open Mic fired off with turns including poetry, a short story, a reading of an extract from a book, piano playing and finally, a contribution form our vice chairman, Colin, who played a lively variation of My Delilah on the banjeleli, which was an education for many of us.

Food was much appreciated and provided by Karen and Joan whilst new member Alan manned the door taking the £1.20 to cover the room hire and refreshments.

Donny Osmond said to be who you are first and foremost, and then, the success will follow.

This is the essence of our Open Mic Group - self expression using words/music with encouragement from the audience in a safe environment and not being under pressure to be the best or unnerved by a competitive environment.

If you would like to come along and either play, read or merely spectate, please have a word with me or drop me an email.

You can turn up on the day, but organisation is easier if I can put together an order of play beforehand and, if numbers do grow, we might have to put a limit on the number of attendees. Letting me know in advance may allow me to guarantee you a spot.

Next meeting is Wednesday 21st October where doors open at 1.45pm for a 2pm prompt start.

Thank you.

Hilary Hughes