Patty Robinson, from the Stamford Parch, came over to the Acoustic Open Mic this November at the Long Ridge Tavern, and apart from sharing stories and fun moments, wrote this cool article about our monthly gatherings where we celebrate music and community!
Thanks Patty, it was great having you at the Tavern and thanks to all who collaborate to make this such a fun, supportive evening!
Acoustic Open Mic Night Shines Monthly at Long Ridge Tavern
On the second Thursday of each month, Long Ridge Tavern offers a unique musical experience along with the chance to join in
By Patti Robinson
Every second Thursday of each month, the
Long Ridge Tavern, known for its warm and rustic atmosphere, is filled with uplifting and inspirational acoustic music — not by a house band, but by a combination of seasoned and young musicians that gather for an open mic night.
Hosted by musician and voice coach Suzanne Tribe, this monthly open mic night is different from others in the area because attracts participants and listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
Beginning April 2009, Tribe said she wanted to create an open mic night for local musicians and audiences to extend and expand their experience and enjoyment of community and music.
"This is an enjoyable evening to spend together supporting loved ones and making connections with others" she told Patch.
Tribe moved to the U.S. in 2005 from Argentina and currently owns a private practice as a voice coach in Stamford. As a Remo Endorsed Health Rhythms facilitator, she conducts rhythm-based events and drum circles in schools, long term care facilities and for community organizations. She also performs with the Global Rhythm Group around the tri-state area and is currently working on her new CD as well as music for a documentary film.
Randy Brody, who performs with Tribe at the open mic nights as a featured player, is a professional music educator, group drumming facilitator and accomplished world music percussionist. He creates drumming workshops and other rhythm-based events for adults and children throughout Connecticut and beyond.
"I love going to Suzanne's open mic night," said Brody. "It's a great opportunity to try out new material and play with different and very talented musicians. Plus, I always make new friends there. It's like a party for musicians and supporters of live music."
To give an example of how eclectic the music can get at these gatherings, this particular night began with Sting's "How Fragile We Are," which Tribe covered on her acoustic guitar along with featured players Mark Hinkley on piano, and Lydia Smith and Brody on exotic hand drums that included African djembe and mbira, Latin congas, Middle Eastern doumbek and Swiss hand drums.
After that performance, however, the stage was open to whoever wanted to display their talents.
"We give everyone the chance to showcase their skills, or lack thereof, to the enjoyment or bemusement of others," Tribe said.
To pre-reserve a spot on the open mic night on Dec. 9, email Tribe at sutribe@yahoo.com
Pic of Suzanne Tribe on guitar and Mark Hinkley on keyboard
