TEEN OPEN MIC NIGHTS

PERFORMANCE DATES:

• Monthly on Sundays during the spring and Fall semesters. 

• Weekly on Saturdays during the summer. 

• See our Calendar for confirmed dates.

 

TIME:

6.30 pm - 8.30 pm

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ADDRESS:

LJMA, 1833 Stanford Street, Santa Monica, 90404

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How does it work?

• All new performers must check in at the front desk, sign up and write their name on an LJMA stamp card at the beginning of the night. Their stamp card will be placed in the lottery drum. Names will be drawn at random throughout the night, with no guarantees that your name is going to be selected. At the end of the night, everyone gets their stamp cards returned to be used at the following open mic night. Those who were not selected to perform will get a LJMA stamp on their card. Once they collect three stamps, they are guaranteed a time slot at the next open mic night. 

• Each performer selected is allowed 5 mins of stage time which includes set up of any instruments they may need, introductions and tear down.

• Sound will be cut off at 5 mins regardless of whether the performance has finished. 

• A bouncer will be at the door checking bags, jackets/coats, and personnel.  

• Attendees are not allowed to leave the venue with the intention to return for any reason. Once you are in, you stay in. 

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who is eligible to attend?

• Anyone aged 13 - 19

• No adults permitted except LJMA staff

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Behavioral Expectations

• This is an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive environment

• No auditions are required, therefore the level of ability may vary

• It is expected that everyone helps maintain a positive and supportive environment regardless of the experience of those performing

• No cliques, egos, or elitism will be tolerated (that includes any booing/jeering, snickering, shaming, or bullying/harassment)

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What is provided?

• Electric piano

• Full PA system

• 3 x wired vocal mics

• 3 x boom mic stands

• Acoustic guitar (you can bring your own)

• 1/4inch guitar cables

• Guitar amp

• 2 x Guitar Stools

• Stage lighting 

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Instruments permitted:

• Acoustic guitar

• Electric guitar

• Keyboard (must use our provided one)

• Bass

• Cajon

• Egg shaker

• Tambourine

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Instruments not permitted:

• Drum kit

• Personal Keyboard (must use the one provided)

• Backing tracks (for anyone who is already an LJMA student. Backing tracks will be permitted for anyone not currently studying with LJMA)

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Song info:

• No extreme expletives, violence, or sexual content 

• Originals are not required but are highly encouraged

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How much does it cost?

• $15 entry for all guests and performers with a maximum capacity of 50 people

• For those who want to ensure they get selected, we offer 5 guaranteed time slots at $25. One time slot per person.  Click HERE to sign up.

• Refreshments will be available for purchase.

• $5 for jacket/coat check if requested.

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Not permitted:

• Outside food and drink

• Vaping

• Smoking

• Drugs or alcohol of any kind

• Backpacks or bags larger than 5 x 6 in

• Smoking apparatus 

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Clear Bag Policy

• All bags must be completely see-through and will be searched at the front door. 

• Bags larger than 5 x 6 inches will not be permitted and you will not be allowed inside with one.

• If you are bringing an instrument it must be stored in our storage room until you are selected and returned after your performance until everyone is ready to leave.

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​Golden Ticket 

• There is one Golden ticket available at each Open Mic Night to one performer who performed an original song.  

• ​Golden Ticket holders are invited to perform at our Industry Showcase in the Summer to showcase 2 original songs to professional industry personnel. Personnel includes but is not limited to record labels, publishers, managers, music supervisors, and independent songwriters. Personnel will watch you perform live, give feedback, give advice, and answer any questions you may have.

• If all original songs fail to meet Golden Ticket Criteria at an Open Mic Night, no Golden Tickets will be handed out.​

 

Q&A

• I don't study at LJMA, can I still perform?

  • Absolutely​, in fact, it is encouraged.

• Do I need to know anyone to perform?

  • No.​

•  Do I have to perform if I attend? 

  • No.​ Anyone is welcome to attend and support their friends or just enjoy the night.

• Are group performances allowed?

  • Yes, however, your allocated stage time starts the minute you start setting up. Make sure to set up quickly.

• ​​Can I perform multiple songs? 

  • Yes, you can perform as many songs as you can fit into your allotted ​5-minute time slot.

• If I'm performing with a friend, am I also allowed to perform on my own?

  • Yes, but it's a one-time slot per name. What you choose to do with that time slot is up to you, whether it's performing solo or bringing up a friend.​ 

• If I get picked but want a later time slot can I choose to perform later? ​

  • No. You either perform when you are selected or not at all. ​