It is well known that we live in the Live Music Capital of the World. Austin is very famous for its music scene, a atmosphere so prevalent it occupies every facet of life in Austin.

St. Edward’s University is not exempt from this reality of ATX living.

Open Mic Night, a tradition at Jo’s café in Ragsdale, gives St. Edward’s musicians, poets and artists of any kind a chance to perform in front of their peers. This is a great opportunity for these students as the music scene attracted many of them to this city.

This event attracted a lot of freshmen and first-year Hilltoppers. It acted as an opportunity to really get to know what life at St. Edward’s will be like.

Freshman Neal Whetstone was happy to see the art scene was everything he expected and more.

“I came to see what the music scene was like at St. Ed’s. I am very satisfied. (Jo’s is a) cool place to chill, to drink coffee with cool people, good vibes — that’s what I came for and that’s what I received,” Whetstone said.

The diverse collection of performances and raw talent of our students created an appealing atmosphere where everyone was able to display the most honest and intimate parts of themselves —their art.

Brian Eisele, one fourth of The 230 Boys, felt very comfortable playing his music.

“In Jo’s, everyone, especially the other acts, was really inviting and supportive after all the shows. I felt just right at home with everyone and it didn’t feel like an audience, more like we were just jamming in our room,” said Eisele.

The audience fed off of the confidence and support from the acts. The diversity of both allowed anyone to feel accepted and at home at Open Mic Night.

Freshman Sina Moghadassi originally came out to support a friend but was impressed by every act.

“I definitely enjoyed the show it was nice to hear all the mix of music. Although The 230 Boys were the best,” Moghadassi said.

The same attitude that drew in the audience appealed to performers as they’re already planning to play at the next Open Mic Night.

“I was very nervous, I like performing but I’m not use to it. I’m definitely going to come back and perform again,” freshman James Castaneda said.

The support of fellow St. Edward’s musicians keeps even veteran musicians coming back to play.

Junior Esperanza Garibay has been performing for three years around the Austin area.

“This is my second time performing [at open mic night]. I’ll definitely perform again, I get gigs around Austin, but it’s cool to do stuff at my school,” Garibay said

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