There are no wrong notes; some are just more right than others." - Thelonius Monk.
Hosted by jazz bassist, music educator, bandleader, and OMP-member Mike Hawkins, this is not a "traditional open mic" - but rather a hosted experience curated by OMP. Players of all levels are welcome. The OMP team curates ensembles as the night unfolds - so the bands are different every song and every week! From standards, to free-form improv, to vocal classics, the showcase is a parade of extraordinary performances.
Instruments provided: drums, bass and amp, baby grand piano, guitar amps. Real Books and music stands are provided. Sound and lights are exceptional. Audience participation is encouraged, whether you're dancing in your seat or on your feet. Play some bongos, have a beer, and jam with the band.
Mike Hawkins has performed with jazz legends saxophonists Jimmy Heath, Eric Alexander, Gary Bartz, Donald Harrison; pianists Bruce Barth, Eric Reed, Mulgrew Miller, CyrusChestnut, John Hicks; vocalists Vanessa Rubin, Leon Thomas, Carla Cook; vibraharpist Stefon Harris; guitarist Mark Whitfield, Mark Elf and Russell Malone; drummers Carl Allen, Ralph Peterson, Cindy Blackmon; and the trombone and seashells of Steve Turre. Also toured abroad in Japan, Russia, Ukraine, China, Germany, Italy, Canada and Scandinavia.
Be cool // OMP is the place for peace, love, support and kindness. Critique must be requested.
Listen // Be mindful of what other players are doing. Be mindful of dynamics. It's OK to not play - music needs silence, too.
Courage // The good stuff is beyond your comfort zone. Make mistakes. See rule #1.
$7
Doors: 6:00pm
Music: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
21+ / 16+ must be accompanied by an adult
General admission. Seats are selected upon arrival and cannot be reserved in advance.
3108 W Cary St
Richmond, VA 23221
804-918-5681
