Printer Friendly Version - Open Mic Night Gives Student Musicians a Chance to Shine

Mariah Dacundo and Greg Magruder perform a spur-of-the-moment cover of Michael Bublé’s “Feelin’ Good” at Open Mic Night on Jan. 13. After the duo finished, Magruder told the audience, “I’ve actually never sung that song before.” Photo by Michelle Anjirbag/The Courier

Ukuleles, guitars, and many a duet filled the auditorium of the Deep River Town Hall on Jan 13, thanks to a new monthly Open Mic Night, open to 6th grade through college-aged performers. The event was organized by Valley Regional High School sophomore Lucy Newman and sponsored by Deep River Parks & Recreation.

Newman was inspired to start open mic night after attending one organized in Chester by another performer of the night, Sophie Spaner.

“We didn’t have anything like that around here,” said Newman. “I thought would be a good idea to have one in Deep River.”

Face Arts Music in Deep River donated the PA system and instruments played by area students. Despite some apparent nerves and reluctance to claim the next performance between acts, the stage was never empty for long. In addition to prearranged and rehearsed acts, many of the attendees experimented with each other through improvised performances throughout the night. The supportive and encouraging environment saw each performer return to the stage multiple times.

“At school we have the choirs, and the musical and show choirs, but it is also nice to choice your own kind of music,” said Newman. “People who don’t always get the leads or solos can have a chance to show their talent here.”

One of the highlights of the night was Sophie Spaner and Mariah Dacundo’s cover of “Riptide” by Vance Joy, with Spaner playing ukulele. Despite never rehearsing the song or singing together prior to that moment on stage, the two harmonized with the polish of a years-long double act, never missing a beat during the upbeat indie single.

A wide range of styles and genres were explored through performers’ song choices. The audience was treated to both completed originals and works-in-progress, and covers of Michael Bublé, Beyonce, Leonard Cohen, and even local band Tuesday Kid.

The Open Mic Nights will run on the second Tuesday of the month from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Deep River Town Hall Auditorium. The next event is scheduled for Feb. 17; for more information call Deep River Parks & Recreation at 860-526-6036.

Marley Elmoznino (left) and Open Mic Night organizer Lucy Newcomb try their hands at a cover of “South” by pop-rock band Hippo Campus. The reception of the first attempt at the cover song encapsulated the spirit of support and experimentation that ruled the night. Photo by Michelle Anjirbag/The Courier