Stewart...now there is an idea for a companion book - The Art of Running and Open Mic. Of course there are all kinds. Locally, there is one focused on mostly original songs (at least that is what the encourage. Even though I do mostly covers, as they once said to me, "Well, it's not like you are doing Eagles songs"...lol). The place is a true listening room - no talking (there is a comfy lounge upstairs where people can go to drink their tea and chat), seating is theatre style....they serve teas and coffees - all ages. Very structured - 2 songs...sign up sheet (get there early). It fills a niche at that end of the spectrum, but still could use your book to make it better.

At the other end of the spectrum is a very successful open mic (running every thursday for 20 years). No sign ups...House band available...it is in a bar, so much diff atmosphere. No sign up sheet....at some point you are asked to go next and it might be 3 or 4 songs or a 45 minute set, depending on the mood and what is going on.

My point is that while very different, there is still much that such a book or workshop could offer both of these nights. Let me know when you publish!

dw