Since it's inception five years ago, Velour Live Music Gallery has been offering local musicians the chance to take the stage. Every Tuesday, amateurs, professionals and music lovers alike come together to both perform and partake in 'Open Mic Night.'
The doors open at 7:15 p.m. and sign-ups are on a first come first serve basis. Up to 18 performers have their chance to share two of their favorite pieces. After their set, all the musicians are encouraged to stay and enjoy music performed by their peers.
'Open Mic Night' started as a way to bring local musicians together and offer a stage applauded by peers to those yearning for the limelight.
The cozy, shabby-chic environment of the Velour offers an environment where creative juices flow. Surrounded by passionate music fans, all those who participate in 'Open Mic Night' have the opportunity to share new ideas and get valuable feedback.'It has been a great success over the years and has lent itself to great networking opportunities,' said Kaneischa Johnson, spokeswoman for Velour. 'Musicians really get the chance to get to know each other. Local legends sometimes come back on 'Open Mic Night' to test out their new stuff.'
Costing only two dollars if performing and three if spectating, 'Open Mic Night' is the perfect chance for any caliber musician to express themselves, get to know other musicians in the area and appreciate local art and culture.
'It's the most affordable way to venture out into the local music scene,' Johnson said.
Lauren Brady, a junior studying linguistics, said she and her friends have always wanted to get together and perform at 'Open Mic Night.'
'It had a different feel from some of the other shows I've been to,' Brady said. 'But there's no denying the talent is still there.'
Whether a musician is pursuing a career in music or just looking for a way to express their music, Brady said it's always a show at the Velour Live Music Gallery.
Braxton Lemmon, a senior studying recreational therapy, performs at 'Open Mic Night' to share the songs he's working on.
'The crowds are always appreciative and supportive,' Lemmon said. 'They, more than anyone, know how hard it is to get up there for the first time. Each show offers some amazing inspiration.'
Lemmon, who plays a variety of instruments including the guitar, banjo and piano, plans to continue writing music and he can't wait to hear what others have been working on.
'Velour is a great place for anyone to share music and get their ideas out there,' Lemmon said.