Scared young'un looking for a good starting place

[abagail]

Hi! I'm a young songwriter who's definitely not strong enough to go promoting herself yet. I've only had performance experience on other instruments in groups, so I haven't played my songs much.

I've played one or two talent shows and people tend to really like me, but people are generally pretty nice to their peers. I'd like to play a little more for people who can give me some constructive tips and get a little more experience playing in front of people.

Any suggestions on fairly cozy/friendly venues (open mics or whatever other events) in the area for a rather intimidated, inexperienced young musician to start out with?

[nickyn99]

If you are 21, got to the jams that are promoted here, very friendly people. Do you have a MySpace page or something people can check your music out?

Cheers!

[abagail]

Alas, I'm a bit too young for that. I'm almost 17. Looking for something for young'uns, if there's anything little event available.

www.myspace.com/abagaillinkmusic
My favorite is "Butterfly."
The recordings are not stellar because I'm running a fairly cheap setup here, but you get the songs, anyway. Also, as I said, I haven't been doing this for too long, so they're pretty simple but I think there's potential. I just want some opportunities to get more comfortable with myself.

[Richard]

I wish we had more people your age to help you out, and guide you where to find band mates. Its hard starting out. I am lucky in that I have always been able to play with nice people, even when I was just learning. Thats the hardest part about music, is finding compatible band members.

Also, there is this option - Ive never tried it, but a few of my friends have.
onlinejamsessions.com

Good Luck !

[coolsongz]

If you can get to downtown Placerville on Thursday, My husband and I will be hosting the open mic at the Cozmic cafe on main street. The crowd is very supportive and a good number of the performers are in your age group. Since the audience is made up of people just as nervous about the stage as you, there is always a warm reception for anyone-especially a young'un who gets up there and just does it! If you don't want to be on stage alone one of us can get up there with you and back you up. And if you show up just ask for me, my name is Tamra Godey. Keep playin girl!

[doofydoo]

open mic at lunas is fun, mixed bag kinda gig, all ages and experience levels. im pretty sure the new naked lounge venue/coffee shop in alkali flats has an open mic. java city in fair oaks has an all ages one, the organizer is a sweet talented gal named anastasia, shes full of friendly advice and council.

[tug]

and you might check out fox and goose on a monday night

[bassman]

Coolsongz speaks the truth. I got my start at the Cozmic Cafe in Placerville. Scared to death the first few times but the crowd is VERY supportive. Now I'm in a band that gets paid gigs and the stage doesn't scare me at all. I highly recommend the Cozmic for someone like you.