Blackbird singing in the dead centre of Stortford

Singer-songwriter Tom Dulieu is launching a fortnightly open mic night in Bishop's Stortford on Wednesday (Mar 27).

Known as ‘Blackbird Open Mic’, the event at the Rose and Crown pub in Station Road will welcome performers of all abilities in a community atmosphere.

Following its first outing, Blackbird will run every other Wednesday. Each night will be open to the public to play, with a booked showcase slot for established and professional musicians to close proceedings.

Tom, who is a member of the Juicebox Live team at The Horn at the Half Moon, has supported a number of notable acts at the North Street venue, including Sports Team, The Dunwells and Wild Front.

He has played all over the UK, selling out in Winchester, Brighton and Bishop’s Stortford. His music has been compared to that of Paulo Nutini, Laura Marling and Bon Iver.

"I wanted to create a place where the local music community could gather for free and exchange ideas and contacts,” he said. “We’re open to all performers and really want this to be a space that is welcoming to people of all skill levels.”

Performers looking to play can email blackbirdrecords01@gmail.com to book a slot or turn up on the night. Tom will be signing up performers from 7pm, with music starting at 8pm.

There is free parking at the rear of the pub, which is a one-minute walk from Bishop’s Stortford railway station.

Other confirmed dates so far are April 10 and 24, May 8 and 22, June 5 and 19, July 10 and 24.

* Find out more about Tom Dulieu and the Blackbird Open Mic by clicking here.