Story and photos by Stephanie Foden
Oshawa youth now have a new place to share their musical creativity. A new open-mic night has started on the first Wednesday of every month at the McLaughlin branch of the Oshawa Public Library.
The new event, which kicked off in July provides an environment where youth aged 10 to 18 can listen and perform music.
“It’s a really great way for people to realize they can meet other musicians that they could have a lot in common with. The creative atmosphere is a great one to live in,” said host of the open-mic, Cassy Goulding. “We’re providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere for young musicians to practice being on stage and gaining confidence there.”
Goulding was approached by Teen Librarian of the Oshawa’s Public Library Teresa Gawman to run the event.
“The teen department of the library is really great. Teresa and the other employees of the library continue to come up with great ways of reaching out to the kids,” said the 21-year-old musician. “This is just another example of that and I’m glad they asked me to be a part of it. I didn’t go to my first open-mic until I was 18 and I really wish I had been exposed to that kind of thing a lot younger.”
Goulding is part of the local non-profit arts collective Broken Arts that is also all ages.
“This has the same satisfaction for me, knowing that we’re providing a safe place and a great creative outlet for young people to work with. It’s a lot better than getting into trouble around town, we might not be trouble, but I like to think we’re kind of fun.”
In between sets, youth can enjoy free refreshments, meet new people and doodle on tablecloths.
Local musician runs open-mic night for youth
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