Testimonials From Previous Performers
Tami Curtis/On the Issaquah Open Mic:
Each individual's experience with the Issaquah Open Mic can vary immensely. Some seasoned players show no visible
signs of blood coursing through their veins like a Formula One driver. My own reaction can be registered on a Chroma
Scale; yielding a wide array of facial colors and temperatures. Before going in front of the mic my first time, my skin
glowed with an anticipatory pink. During that performance my face turned red-hot from stress and anxiety. Afterward I
basked in gentle peach-colored relief in having accomplished something which is very difficult for me - playing my
fiddle without six other bandmates surrounding me...errrr, drowning me out. The second time I had the opportunity to
play bodhran (Irish drum), accompanying a friend on flute. Facial tone at that event? Cool green like a cucumber. No
stress, no anxiety, all fun. Even better, afterwards my face alit with rosy hues with a self-congratulatory glass of wine.
Open Mic is a different journey for each player. Mine has just been a colorful journey. I can't wait to see what tones I hit next time!
Tami Curtis,
fiddle flubber and drum dallyer
Gary Benson/On the Issaquah Open Mic:
One September evening almost a year ago, I came to the Issaquah open mic;
a friend had told me about it and I thought I would give it a try. I didn’t know
anyone there but was taken by the friendliness, encouragement and support of those
who came. I liked the small-town feel of the venue; a community coming together
to share their love of acoustic music and singing.
I play a lot of open mics and Coffeehouses in the Seattle/Bellevue areas, and the Issaquah open mic is unique in
it’s own way. It’s a long commute from West Seattle, but worth the trip!
I’ve been singing and playing acoustic music since my college days. My musical
influences have been James Taylor, Carole King, Crosby/Stills/Nash, the Beatles,
Shawn Colvin, Kenny Loggins, Sarah McLachlan among many others. It’s that love of
the “music that I grew up with” that draws me to share at the Issaquah Open Mic---give it a try!
Best,
Gary Benson/Seattle 206-242-3232
Other Testimonials
Great OM. Talented musicians.
Friendly atmosphere.
Carol Whitaker
