Yes you read it right, after discussions regarding the JGC OM performers and the apparent drop off of first timers signing up for their debut for quite a number of OMs now, we toyed with the idea of hosting a “First Timers Only” OM.
And we thought it only fair to given any first timers who are up for the challenge, plenty of time to prepare or even just consider signing up once the Call For Interest gets posted.
So we are targeting JGC OM 32 on Saturday 9th August 2025 at 1900 UTC.
Usual criteria for applicants apply and plenty of time to meet them, if you think you may be falling short in a few areas. Link here if you are not sure
We want to get as many folk as possible to take part as we can but within the usual time limits we set for the show. So if you are up for it please let us know and the Steering Group can then assess what tweaks might be needed to accommodate as many folk as we can.
So don’t forget you will be on a level playing field and all be playing “live” for the first time. What level you are at does not matter as long as you fulfil the OM criteria,
There will be no “seasoned” JGC OMers but I would expect all of our regulars to sign up for the audience and support you, upholding the pay it forward ethos and in the spirit of Community engagement.
If you fancy having a crack, please let us know, so we can plan accordingly.
Hoping that collectively we can make this a success and something we can repeat in the future.
This is a wonderful move.
In my thoughts I hope and wish for so many new performers that Toby has to do a tricky balancing act to keep on top of things.
I love this idea! I echo what Richard said and hope you end up with a ton of takers!
I figured I’d add just a little extra encouragement for those that are reluctant to sign up….
If you are even remotely considering this, PLEASE sign up. Will there be nerves? Yes. Will you have an amazing and supportive audience? Also, yes.
I started playing the OMs back at number 12, I believe. I had only been playing for around 8 months and I was incredibly nervous. My hands were shaking and I was having a hard time playing chords that hadn’t really given me trouble before. I almost forgot some of the lyrics. Even given all that, it was an incredible experience and I would repeat it all again in a heartbeat. I took it as a learning experience and signed up to do the next one. You will gain so much in the process. Plus, it is just super fun and rewarding!
Also, please do not be intimidated by the tech side of things. Even those with just a laptop and an acoustic guitar have played very successfully with no fancy equipment.
Great idea. It is such fun, channel the adrenaline and make it work for you.
Yes it is a challenge to perform live, but remember no one will laugh or be unkind. We are all learning an instrument which takes years to master, I certainly have not.
Give it serious thought and play an easy song. You will so pleased you did.
Can I have an audience seat please @TheMadman_tobyjenner
Singing is optional after all it’s Justin Guitar not Justin Sings !!
On the set up side there are plenty of guides and we will make sure everyone gets to know what they need ahead of time. One of the reasons for the early heads up !
Great idea indeed!
As someone who just had his first OM, I cannot recomend it more. The audience is supportive and encouraging and you will have great experience.
I have watched many of the past events on the youtube community channel and it’s always fun to see you guys have fun playing the guitar .
It’s a great idea to make an event specially for first time performers. I’ve never performed myself, but if I was, I’m pretty sure that choosing a simple song that I am confident with would be a better choice than a complicated one.
Right now, I’m working on blues, so a simple blues improv with a backing track would be enough. Nothing really fancy. Something simple to break the ice. With the nerves, tech setup and everything, it’s probably best to keep it simple with the song choice.
@GrumpyMac Deborah, as Toby said singing is optional and while most do we have had several OM performers who only play.
We have also had several who play over backing tracks, including the App.
As for gear, we have had some who use the simplest level of gear, either joining with a phone/tablet using the devices built-in camera and mic or a PC with just a webcam for visual and audio.
So put all those reservations aside and begin preprations immediately if not sooner.
I echo what Richard said and hope you end up with a ton of takers!
