Event: Who’s Taking the Stage Next?

Institute Open Mic: Beats for a Bigger Purpose

What better way to support the Institute than by sharing the joy of the arts?

For Jay Orellana, a Board Member and parent of three Institute students, hosting an open mic night to raise funds for the Institute of Music “felt like a no-brainer”. He wondered how he could help raise money for the Institute’s major expansion while also highlighting talented performers. The solution was a lively night of performances led by skilled Teaching Artists, open to all art forms and anyone eager to share their passion---including Institute parents!

This is why Jay asked talented Teaching Artists and percussionists Justin Vedovelli and Hector Morales to lead the event. Justin started playing drums at age six, and Hector began playing the Cajon, a traditional Afro-Peruvian percussion instrument, at age eight. Hector has performed at places like Lincoln Center and the National Museum of Peru, while Justin had recorded three albums by age 18.

Institute Teaching Artists are deeply involved and truly love their craft, sharing it with both their students and the wider community. At the Open Mic, they will showcase their talents and teach the audience about different musical instruments, showing what makes the Institute unique. This means everyone, not just Institute students, can learn from them.

With plenty of experience planning events, Jay took the lead on this one to support the Institute’s multi-year campaign to improve facilities and transform the campus. For Jay, an Open Mic offers the freedom to showcase a wide range of art forms. “I like the eclecticism of it and activities that are really inclusive in that sense,” he said.

The Institute’s main goal is to raise funds to modernize, expand, and build state-of-the-art facilities. As Jay said, this will “allow our students to practice their art in a modern way reflective of the technology available to them.” He added, “Every little bit helps.” Events like this Open Mic help the Institute continue to offer the best for its students and plan for the future. Institute families are able to get a discount to attend as well!

Our Open Mic Night will take place on Sunday, July 26th, from 3-7 PM at the Institute. Interested attendees can purchase tickets here, and interested performers can register to perform here. Remember to spread the word, invite friends and family, and show up to support the Institute!