The Jacaranda: The Perfect Open Mic Night.

And why you should spend a Sunday evening there.

Once a week on a Sunday, starting at 8pm until late, the Jacaranda is home to musicians of all genres, instruments and stories to tell – myself included.

Located on Slater Street, with quaint benches outside and an amazing record shop upstairs, the Jacaranda (@jacarandaliverpool) makes for the perfect venue for any open mic night. The first time I attended I didn’t play a song, or go up to sing, but just getting to experience the night was enough. The next time I went, I got my good friend Niamh to play the guitar for me, as I hadn’t learnt the guitar – yet! The first time I just sang “anything” by adrienne lenker, and the second time I went I sang a couple of Lola Young songs.:

Side topic incoming:

I realised something early January of this year – I could teach myself to play guitar. So I did just that. I’m still learning and growing with this skill, of course, but being able to go to a place like the Jacaranda, where no one feels out of place and all are welcome in the environment and sing about my experiences, both happy and sad, has been absolutely cathartic for me. Through my songwriting and having a place like the Jacaranda to share my experiences, I’ve been able to overcome some of my own personal challenges.

I’ve even started a music account on Instagram! (@justgrace.music) I’ve posted one of my songs so far and hope to keep posting covers and originals.

Okay, back to the Jacaranda!

I would honestly say to any first-years, second-years, whomever you are, not just those doing a Music degree (I’m a Communication and Media student!) that you have to go to the Jacaranda at least once during your studies, even if you don’t take part. Being able to experience an environment where there is zero judgement, just music and appreciation for songwriting, is something that has helped to make me a more confident person, and more willing to express myself in public.

The regular host, Ali Horn (Instagram @alihornmusic) does an incredible job. Not only is he an incredible guitar player – his song “Weather Warnings” is absolutely beautiful and a must-listen – he makes all feel welcome. I remember my first open mic, speaking into the mic, hands shaking, and I said,

‘Forgive me if I’m not good tonight, I’m incredibly nervous!’

And all Ali says is:

‘We’re all family here.’ Instantly put me at ease. Not once have I felt nervous performing since then.

If you’re a musician, singer, songwriter, or even if you’re not; if you’re like me, someone who’s been playing guitar for less than a year and has managed to get herself up on stage, sing and play guitar, then anyone can.

For more music, click here:

https://www.liverpoolguildstudentmedia.co.uk/category/music