As a music lover and a passionate advocate for local arts, I see firsthand the transformative power of music. But it is not just about stadium tours and chart-topping hits 😄; it is about the raw, unfiltered magic that happens right in our own backyard. That is why I am proud to serve on the Board of Directors for Tualatin Valley Artists 501(c)(3), the non-profit organization that operates Influence Music Hall. As a team of volunteers, we are dedicated to fostering Western Oregon's finest Friday night open mic.

For years, our open mic has been more than just a stage. Our open mic is a vibrant hub, a place where stories are sung, poems are recited, and connections are forged. A cornerstone of our community, offering a unique space for expression, growth, and shared experience.

More Than Just a Show: The True Value of Community Music

You might think of an open mic as just a casual night out, a chance to hear a few tunes. But for many, it is so much more profound. Open mic is:

• A Launchpad for Local Talent: How many artists got their start on a humble open mic stage? Ours is no different. We've seen shy beginners blossom into confident performers, honing their craft, finding their voice, and even launching their careers. It's a low-pressure environment where aspiring musicians, poets, and storytellers can test new material, gain valuable stage experience, and receive supportive feedback.
• A Sanctuary for Expression: Life can be tough, and sometimes the best way to process emotions is through art. Our open mic provides a safe and welcoming space for individuals to share their deepest thoughts, joys, and struggles through music, spoken word, or comedy. It is a powerful outlet for self-expression and a vital tool for mental well-being.
• Building Bridges, One Song at a Time: In an increasingly fragmented world, our open mic acts as a powerful unifier. It brings together people from all walks of life – different ages, backgrounds, and perspectives – all sharing a common love for creativity. Barriers break down as audience members cheer on performers, and friendships are often sparked in the shared appreciation of a moving performance. It's a genuine melting pot of our community's diverse voices.
• Fostering a Culture of Creativity: When you see someone bravely step onto a stage and share their art, it's incredibly inspiring. Our open mic helps cultivate a vibrant local arts scene by encouraging creativity, collaboration, and mutual respect among artists and audiences alike. It reminds us that art isn't just for a select few; it's for everyone.
• Affordable Entertainment for Everyone: In today's economy, finding accessible and enriching entertainment can be a challenge. Our Friday night open mic offers a fantastic, low-cost option for a fun night out. It's a place where families can gather, friends can connect, and individuals can simply enjoy the magic of live performance without breaking the bank.

The Power of "Us": How Our Non-Profit Makes it Happen

Behind every strum of a guitar, every heartfelt lyric, and every round of applause at our open mic, there is a dedicated team of volunteers working tirelessly. We handle everything from securing the venue and sound equipment to promoting events and ensuring a safe, inclusive environment for everyone. Our mission is to keep this vital community resource thriving, accessible, and free for all participants and attendees.

However, operating a program that makes a real difference in people's lives does not come without costs. We rely entirely on the generosity of those who believe in the power of community music as much as we do. This is where donations, grants, and strategic partnerships come into play.

• Individual Donations: Every dollar makes a tangible difference. Your contribution helps us cover operational expenses, maintain our equipment, and even explore opportunities to expand our reach, perhaps by offering workshops or special events. Think of your donation as an investment in the cultural richness and emotional well-being of our community.
• Grants for Growth: We actively seek grants from foundations and organizations that share our vision for a more vibrant and connected community. These contributions allow us to make significant improvements, whether it's upgrading our sound system, supporting partnerships such as Rhythm and Autism, or expanding our marketing efforts to reach even more aspiring artists.
• Community Partnerships: We believe in the power of collaboration. We actively seek partnerships with local businesses, schools, and other community organizations. At Influence Music Hall we are especially proud of our partnership with the Cultural Arts District of the City of Hillsboro and the Hillsboro Art Walk. Our partnership with Andee Joyce and her Rhythm and Autism project puts us at the forefront of neurodiversity awareness in an inclusive community.

Join Our Chorus!

Our Friday night open mic is a place where magic happens, where connections are forged, and where the universal language of music brings us all a little closer.

We invite you to be a part of this incredible journey. Whether you are an aspiring artist, a loyal audience member, or a community leader looking to make a lasting impact, there is a place for you in our chorus. Let's keep the music playing, the stories flowing, and our community thriving, one open mic night at a time.

William Siebold

Board of Directors | Director of Technology

Tualatin Valley Artists 501(c)(3) and Influence Music Hall