Cabrini Open Mic Night was held outdoors on the lawn behind the mansion at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 10. The night’s line up revealed student performers displaying a variety of musical talents and original song and cover performances. Both solo performances and group collaborations took the stage to entertain attending viewers on Cabrini’s campus.
The event began with a short introduction from CAP Board member Greg Robinson. He began with a reminder that the day had also been World Suicide Prevention Day and shared his own story in respect for the day’s purpose and as a way to lessen the nerves of the performers following him. The event encompassed the performances of Matt Juliano, Christian Jones, Ben Danner, John Crouse, Scott Preston, Anie Jamgochian, Camie Allen and Bree Savrin.
For Anie Jamgochian, who sang with the largest group of the night, this was the first Open Mic Night she’s performed at. She commented on the fact that, for her, it was easier singing with a group of people.
“It was definitely easier to perform with a group of people. It was just easier singing knowing that they have your back, and that you’re doing it together, which definitely eases the nerves,” Jamgochian said.
Collectively, Jamgochian, Danner, Crouse and Preston covered two songs: “Happy Together” by The Turtles, and “The Only Exception” by Paramore. Jamgochian admitted choosing the song was possibly harder than practicing.
“We didn’t actually practice as much as we could, and we practiced more on our own. We wound up just talking and in conversation “Happy Together” came up as something we all liked. Then someone suggested Paramore, and John knew how to play ‘The Only Exception’ so that made it easier,” Jamgochian said.
The attendance numbered around 50, and most came prepared with blankets or seats to watch all of the performers. Attendee Jillian Megna was at the event from beginning to end and enjoyed the atmosphere.
“I loved that Open Mic Night was outside. You can hear the songs from the different buildings on campus, which I think drew more people in,” Megna said. “It was also great to see new people getting up there and performing that haven’t done it before.”
Future Open Mic Nights will be announced on the calendars released from SEaL and on flyers hanging around campus. The sign up sheets to participate are also in the SEaL office. All are encouraged to come out.
Jamgochian left one bit of advice for any students thinking of signing up for the first time or returning.
“Definitely practice and try not to do it last minute because then you’ll feel more confident in remembering the songs. Be prepared and don’t worry because a lot of people are afraid to perform in front of others but everyone at Open Mic is there for you and to cheer you on. Have a good time and enjoy yourself. Also if you look back on it and think you could’ve done better, don’t stop! Keep doing it because you can only get better, especially if it’s something you love,” Jamgochian said.
