Hosting. What's that?

One day, many years ago after being a regular at the Virtually Acoustic Club for a while I came up with a suggestion. I thought that rather than the endless onslaught of singer-songwriters that the night would benefit from having a host. Somebody to help bring some cohesion to the night, along with breaking up the monotony of the singer songwriters. I made the suggestion thinking that one of the more charismatic and vivacious regulars would stand up and be counted and that a host would be found. Well after a couple of months of the regulars all having a go, I one day realised that my name was in the frame more than not, and I became the clubs regular host until it closed it doors in 2002. Well, as you know the club is back, but I won't be the regular host.

The plan is to have a mixed array of guest hosts, and this article is a primer for anyone wanting to have a go.

So what's in it for me?

The question that I'm most often asked is 'why should I host?' Well, let me tell you, it's not for the money. Because there isn't any. And the rumour that you will be bought drinks all night by other artists is highly exaggerated. And the frequency that people offer you sexual favours, well, it's not unheard of, but I wouldn't expect it on a regular basis.

Firstly it will give you lots of practice of 'adlibs' on stage. It's a vital skill for most performers, and it can make a huge difference to the entertainment value of your shows. Secondly, it will drastically improve your stage confidence. And Finally, it gives you a perfect opportunity to get to know more people on the scene. And never underestimate the value of friends on the circuit.

So what do I have to do?

In it's most basic form you need to prepare an artist who will be coming on soon, and tell the audience who is coming on now. However, the scope of the job can be much greater. The host can make an incredible difference to an evening, both for the artists as well as the audience. Well, I'm going to introduce an Acronym, just because I can.

E.F.F.E.C.T..

Expectation -

At the start of the night, nobody, including the host has any idea what to expect. You should try to let them know what they can expect, and what you expect from them. Explain the format of the evening. Not everyone there has been before. Let people know how many songs they can play. Let them know you want them to show their appreciation of other artists, and respect the house rules. Also, let them know that if they get into the spirit they could have an excellent evening.

Fear -

The first time you Host an evening you will probably be nervous. In fact, your tummy may be playing all sorts of antisocial tricks on you. But, there will also be a number of artists who are in exactly the same position as you. You looking like a Bunny in headlights isn't going to make them feel better. Do your best to hide your own concerns, and reassure anyone else who is worried. It makes it more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.

Fun -

At the end of the night, you want everyone to have had fun. That includes random audience members, friends of the artists, all of the performers, and the host. If you can make the crossovers between acts more like part of the evening then great. Try and get the audience involved. Try and make the audience smile. Laugh. Cheer. Throw their coats off and Dance. It's not easy. Be prepared to settle for a wry smile from the bloke in the flat cap on the front row, but still give it a go.

Energy -

Try to build the energy and excitement in the room. With any luck, you'll have at least a handful of people in the audience who understands how the dynamics should work. If the evening starts with low energy, then it's likely to stay that way. Try and build up the audiences excitement. Maybe get them to realise that somewhere in the room they may have the next Norah Jones, Jamie Cullem, or Pink. But definitely let them realise that if they're going to be a miserable git, they may as well go home and be a miserable git.

Cohesion -

An open mic is usually 20 - 30 individual disparate acts offering their version of musical expression. Some will be better than others. Some will be poignant, some will be humorous, some will be downbeat, and others will be bizarre. Only two things join them together, their desire to perform for other people, and you joinging them all together. Somehow this needs to be made into a single evenings entertainment, and not look like 'channel hopping'. It's easier said than done. Your very existence will get you started off. However, common themes can help. You may like to play a game with the audience that you come back to every few acts. Or tell a story where you don't get to the punch line until 9.30. A catch phrase gives a sense of repetition and familiarity. And more than anything, try to fill the gaps. Encourage the artists to be ready to play as soon as the previous artist has left the stage. And encourage people to tune up beforehand.

Timing -

On a busy night where you're trying to fit over 50 songs on from over 25 artists, then everyone of those artists will hold you responsible for ensuring that they get their share of the action. Don't create dead space. Don't wait for the applause to fizzle out to nothing before you start. There are places where you will need to take some time, either to try and build the crowds energy, to give the audience time to get their breath back, or clear their ears ready for the next course. Equally there should be times when you do just put on acts in quick succession to build the pace. Also, don't be afraid to tell people that they can't play as much as everyone else. Ask for volunteers first. If that doesn't work then try to target the 'regulars' and the 'old hands' with this news. They're generally less concerned or likely to kick up a fuss, and more understanding.

Conclusion

I suppose there has to be a conclusion. And my conclusion is that Hosting is a tough job, but it can be incredibly rewarding. And it's very educational. Remember this isn't so much a "how to" guide as a list of things to consider if and when you take the plunge. More than anything else, be yourself. Everyone who goes to an open mic has their own agenda. You can't cater to them all. Some people may think you're the best thing since sliced bread. Others will think you smell like mouldy bread. Don't try to be Tony Moore, Stephen A Chin, Terry Wogan or Dale Winton. (But feel free to nick as many of my lines as you want.) Stamp your own personality on the evening.

And more than anything. Enjoy it.

Big Noise, Big Love ©2004 Stephen A Chin & The Virtually Acoustic Club
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