For the Pipers out there spending your convo hours sitting in your dorm, eating at the Klas Subway or hiding on the third floor of Bush, did you know that live music is being played on the first floor of Anderson?  Hamline senior Taylor Seaberg and Director of Media Services Brian Johnson collaboratively worked to create HU’s Music in the Forum Open Mic every Thursday during convo hour from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. This jam session is open to anyone and everyone who wants to hear different genres of music while they study, perform and gain some musical exposure or just simply enjoy the atmosphere while eating lunch.

“Over the past couple semesters, HU’s Music in the Forum has really evolved. We’ve had a really good response,” Seaberg said.

When Music in the Forum started out last year as just an idea and an open mic, it was relatively small. Now that it’s an official Hamline organization, many students have embraced the opportunity to spread their music.

“Taylor approached me a couple of years ago and we decided to try it out last spring.  We wanted to give the Anderson Center some free entertainment as well as giving Hamline students, faculty and staff a time and place to show off their talents,” Johnson said.

Since there is no roster or formal lineup, many students have put aside their stage fright and jammed on stage. The organization provides equipment from a PA system to instruments. Since noise is a concern, the performers are usually singles, duets or acoustic bands.  The forum has even featured local artists and Hamline alumni. An open mic regular and Hamline senior, Max Hohlen, plays guitar and sings.

“I’ve performed around a dozen times during convo hour.  I usually play covers of Bob Marley, Trevor Hall and occasionally some oldies like Michael Jackson. It’s very laid back and unintimidating,” Hohlen said.

HU’s Music in the Forum is encouraging musicians and singers of all skill levels to perform. If you want to get involved behind the scenes, contact the organization’s Facebook page.

“It’s the one day a week to get excited about music and a great way for people to expose themselves. Sometimes people even join each other on stage. It’s just a fun and entertaining way to spend the convo hour and utilize the space we  have on campus,” Seaberg said.