This probably doesn't need to be said, but remember that open-mics are FOR those of us who are rough around the edges and probably shouldn't be doing real gigs. Many wonderfully accomplished musicians also go to open-mics, but they're there to either help/be supportive of the people who are working on their music, to try out new material they haven't polished, because they don't happen to have a gig and just need to get on stage, or (unfortunately) to show how wonderful they are when their surrounded by "people with less ability."

I help run an open-mic - and for the past few months there's a guy who comes and struggles through "Pirate Looks At 40" on his guitar. He can't seem to get the rhythm right, so I've started to help him by playing with him on the tin whistle. He's getting better. That's what open-mics should be all about.

pax yall