The University of Idaho’s International Programs Office held a Global Music Open Mic Night on Thursday, Oct. 29, from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. at One World Cafe. The event was part of International Education Week.
According to Mimi Kestle, the International Programs director, “Living in a rural area, these events allow us to celebrate the close to 70 countries represented in our campus and to celebrate all the international education and richness.”
The event featured an audience of all ages and backgrounds, offering a welcoming and diverse atmosphere. The cafe was filled to the brim with individuals, many of which spent the night dancing along to the music or talking with friends.
Over 10 individuals and groups performed, showcasing music from a variety of cultures. Songs ranged from Peruvian Creole, to Italian, to Lady Gaga and everything in between. The music even expanded outside our universe, to “a galaxy far, far away,” with one artist performing songs from the popular “Star Wars” franchise.
Several performers utilized guitars or pianos, while others utilized less common instruments such as the cajón, cowbell and accordion. Some performed without instruments, their singing the main object of their performance.
English and Spanish were the most commonly featured languages, but many more made their appearance throughout the night. One individual even translated a German song into French.
Munira Meem, a senior at UI, captured this diversity perfectly when she said: “Music travels across languages, but the emotions remain alive between us.”
Meem also requested that the audience wish a happy birthday to her friend across the world in Bangladesh, adding another special element to the night.
Beyond celebrating global culture, the event gave many the opportunity to gain experience performing in front of a crowd.
According to Bill LaVoie, the event’s technical director, “It’s important that musicians hear themselves well… Open mics are a safe place for people to go out and play music and be in front of people.”
Kaili Chapman, a freshman at UI, agreed with his statement when she said: “Singing solo was something I haven’t experienced as much of, but it felt really good. It was good exposure, and good practice!”
The International Programs Office has held several recent events, including the Global Moments Photo Contest, the Global Scavenger Hunt with the School of Global Studies and a talk on global peace building as part of the Renfrew Colloquium. More information on the office and their events can be found on UI’s International Student and Scholar Services website.
One World Cafe also features several unique events, which can be found on their events website.
Many of those who performed at Global Music Open Mic Night are set to perform again within the next month.
LaVoie has his own band, “Corn Mash,” and is set to perform at the cafe on Saturday, Nov. 7, 6 to 8 p.m.
A Brazilian band, “Forro for All,” will play on Thursday, Nov. 12, 6 to 8 p.m.
An open mic night for children will supposedly take place Sunday, Nov. 22, however details have not yet been released on the cafe’s website.
Melanie Knapp can be reached at [email protected].