Todd Houghton has made Tuesdays tuneful for 10 years.
A decade ago, the island musician founded the Harbour Public House’s weekly “open mic” night, which celebrates its anniversary with a soiree Jan. 21.
“The objective was to give local musicians a place where they could take that step outside their living rooms and be able to perform for a live audience in a relaxed and friendly venue,” Houghton said.
Since the open-mic began, he said, the event has featured acts ranging from singer-songwriters jazz to bluegrass and rock ‘n’ roll.
Houghton, who has performed in venues ranging from clubs to county fairs, says the evenings have benefited both audience and performers. Pub owner Jocelyn Waite, whose family opened the business 11 years ago, agrees.
“I think it makes the place more fun,” Waite said, “and provides a communiiy servive by giving muscians somewhere to perform.”
Pub patrons have enjoyed the chance to listen to good music without a cover, and the musicians have had the chance to play without stress.
Houghton had not been on Bainbridge long when he founded the series. The Colorado native, blind since age 7, moved to the island in 1991.
On Bainbridge, Houghton has continued to write and perform songs, as well as composing music for scores of documentaries.
Sharp ears
Visual impairment has sharpened his ability to hear, Houghton says – an advantage for a musician.
Projecting sound works like a sonar device, he says, giving him feedback about the shape of a room, the height of a ceiling and textures in the room.
“Every night is different, the sound is different,” he said.
Houghton anticipates a truly unique sound in the pub Tuesday.
“I’m just inviting people to see if we can’t pack the place with musicians,” he said.
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Celebrate 10 years of open-mic performances with music and restaurant “eats and treats,” at 8 p.m. to midnight Jan. 21 at the Harbour Public House. Participating musicians should sign up by 7:30 p.m.
Patrons and performers must be 21 years or over. Call 842-0969 for more information.
