What is an Acoustic Club?

You may well ask.  To some people, “acoustic club” conjures up visions of traditional folk songs, often sung unaccompanied.  To others, it means a bearded singer with a guitar.  Images of the 60s, elitist groups of long-haired women in flowing skirts and bare feet.  Incense sticks, open-toed sandals, vegetarianism etc.

O.K. so you get the gist?  In fact an acoustic club may or may not incorporate any of these things – so much depends on who is running them. 

Our club is open to anyone – hence our name “The Open Door”.   Previously known as the “Acoustic Music Club” the new title “Open Door” was chosen because we feel it more accurately portrays the atmosphere and welcoming nature of our monthly gatherings. 

Where and When ... 

The Open Door Acoustic Club runs on the third Friday of each month, commencing at 8.00pm. in the function room of the Waldegrave Arms, East Harptree.  Everyone is welcome to come along and play, whatever their standard, or just come and sit down with a drink, enjoy the friendly atmosphere and huge variety of music, with a chance to participate in the optional quiz and win a token to exchange at the bar.

 In fact, the word “club” is a bit of a misnomer in that there is no need to join, sign up or commit to anything.  There is no entrance charge though we do welcome (and encourage) people to leave a donation towards our costs.  No high finance, just £1 or so.

So who comes along?

The answer is, many people attend regularly but new faces appear every month!  Regular attenders come from as far afield as North Bristol, Warminster and Weston Super Mare and we even had a couple from Manchester drop in for one session.  No, they hadn’t made a special trip – they were on holiday and happened to see a flyer in the pub so dropped in to see what was going on and ended up staying till nearly midnight!
Anyone, young or old is welcome.  Providing you don’t turn up too late, you are pretty well guaranteed a performance slot.  Mike is in charge of timings and by and large he has this down to a fine art.  If you want a slot, give him your name when you arrive - he will add you to the list and let you know approximately when you are likely to play. 

It’s always an interesting night as we never know who is going to turn up.  The room is not large so there is no need for sound equipment, mics etc.  and there is no piano so anyone wishing to bring a keyboard please contact us beforehand and arrange to arrive early so we can organise sufficient space.

For us, the variety of music and performers is what makes each gathering so special.  We encourage anything “acoustic” so storytelling and poetry may well be a feature of the evening.  Inevitably there are lots of guitars, but each session is likely to include a scattering of other instruments too including harp, accordion, violin, banjo, drum, cello, saxophone, bagpipes, flute, mandolin, balalaika and even a didgeridoo!  We have singers of all types, classical, folk, jazz and blues, solo, duo or groups.  Children are made welcome and encouraged to perform if they wish.  Their confidence quickly grows with the benefit of a supportive audience. 

Oh yes, and the quiz……

Each month there is a quiz sheet that can be purchased for £1.00 with a chance of winning a £5.00 voucher to exchange at the bar.  The theme varies but is always music-based and anyone wishing to have a go at compiling the next one is welcome to volunteer for the task!  See Mike if you’re interested.

So what does Maire do?

Good question.  Actually she does quite a lot but it tends to be background stuff!  She generally sorts the room out earlier in the day, meets and greets people, watches out for newcomers, arranges extra seating when it’s a full night, drinks quite a lot of wine and marks the quiz sheets. (hopefully before imbibing too much!)  If you fancy coming along for the first time and you’re worried you don’t know anyone, you’re welcome to give Maire a ring beforehand and she will make sure you’re not left on your own.

So, in the words of Mike’s specially written theme song – “Just come on through the Open Door.”

Look forward to seeing you!