How to Prepare for Your First Open Mic

A great first step for any musician aiming to take their music from their bedroom to the stage is to get involved in a local open mic event. Stepping on to the stage for the first time usually comes with some jitters and nerves, which is only natural. Making sure that you’re well prepared beforehand will help to build your confidence and make sure that your open mic performance is a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

We’ve put together some of our top tips for preparation which will help you beat the nerves and deliver your best performance.

Soak Up the Atmosphere: Before diving into your own performance, take the opportunity to attend open mic nights as an audience member. This not only familiarises you with the environment but also allows you to connect with the organiser and fellow performers. Solidarity and support can go a long way in calming those pre-performance nerves.

Follow Instructions: Once you've applied to perform, make sure to follow any instructions provided by the organiser. Whether it's regarding set length, equipment setup, or promotional materials, adhering to their guidelines ensures a smoother experience for everyone involved.

Prepare Your Set: Preparation is key. Take the time to craft your setlist and rehearse both your music and any spoken introductions. Additionally, have your social media links and other promotional materials ready to share with the audience.

Communicate with the Sound Engineer: Providing a clear tech spec to the sound engineer is crucial for ensuring optimal sound quality during your performance. Avoid surprising them with last-minute instrument changes!

Respect Time Limits: Stick to the time frame you're given. If you're allotted 15 minutes, resist the temptation to overrun. Being on time for your performance demonstrates professionalism and consideration for your fellow performers.

Tune Up: Make sure your instrument is in top condition by restringing and tuning it before the set. This simple step can make a world of difference when it comes to your sound quality.

Pack Spares: Murphy's Law often applies to live performances. Bring extra strings, straps, and any other essentials to handle unforeseen mishaps with ease.

Arrive Early: Arriving well in advance allows time for sound checks and familiarising yourself with the venue. Use this opportunity to fine-tune your setup and ease any last-minute nerves.

Stay Hydrated and Warm Up: Keep your vocal cords in top shape by staying hydrated and doing vocal warm-ups before taking the stage.

Embrace Nerves: Instead of fighting nervous energy, channel it into your performance. Use the adrenaline to fuel your passion and create a memorable experience for both yourself and the audience.

Tech Essentials: If you plan on singing over backing tracks, be sure to bring them on a USB drive in MP3 format for seamless playback. This small yet essential step ensures smooth sailing during your performance and eliminates any last-minute technical hiccups.

Support Fellow Artists: Show your appreciation for your fellow performers by staying for their sets. A supportive atmosphere can make all the difference in creating a welcoming community.

Express Gratitude: Don't forget to thank the venue, sound engineer, organiser, and audience members. Genuine gratitude goes a long way in fostering positive relationships within the music community.

Follow Up: Show appreciation on social media and through emails after the event. Building connections and expressing gratitude helps maintain positive relationships within the music scene.

Keep Growing: After your first open mic, continue honing your craft. Bring in new material and reflect on your performance to identify areas for improvement.

Record Your Performance: If possible, have someone film your performance. Watching yourself back can provide valuable insights into your stage presence and sound quality.

Promote Yourself: Don't miss out on the opportunity to promote your music by having any promotional materials ready, whether it's your social media handles, upcoming EP launch details, or gig dates. Being proactive about self-promotion can help expand your audience and opportunities within the music community.

Seek Feedback: Don't hesitate to ask for feedback from organisers, fellow performers, and audience members. Constructive criticism is essential for growth as an artist.

Remember, your first open mic is just the beginning of your journey as a live performer. Embrace the experience, learn from it, and keep shining your light through your music.

For young performers under 18, it can be difficult to secure a performance slot at a typical open mic night which usually takes place in a bar or venue serving alcohol. To combat this issue, Oh Yeah hosts a monthly Youth Open Mic event which provides a safe and supportive space where single or duo young musicians can perform. If you’d like to sign up for a performance slot, email caoimhe@ohyeahbelfast.com