Open Mic nights have been taking place for many decades. They are one of many ways communities bond. These sessions welcome anyone to share their talents and feel a sense of what it’s like to give and receive community support.

On Friday, March 1, 2024, residents of Coal Creek Canyon gathered at the Coal Creek Canyon Improvement Association (CCCIA) from 7 to 9 p.m. for an evening showcasing some of the community’s hidden musical celebrities.

Dr. Wippit entertained mountain residents with original songs and covers. He played acoustic and electric guitar and encouraged the crowd to sing along. You can find his musical stylings on Spotify under Dr. Wippit.

Mark Twang continued the event with a few original songs while playing his cigar box dulcimer. His uniqueness, without question, added flare to the evening. For anyone curious about Twang’s cigar box jams, check out his YouTube channel at MarkTwangSounds.

Long time local and happily married (for 56 years) Ken Fisher took to the stage, covering songs by several artists, including Willie Nelson. Fisher not only soothed the audience’s soul with his charming voice but did so in English, Spanish, and French.

Valerie Wedel stole our hearts with the angelic vibrations of her harp, taking everyone on a trip across the romantic country of Spain and beyond. Wedel’s mesmerizing tunes created a perfect complement to the evening.

Harmonica player Mike Orchard joined Dr. Wippit, Twang, and Wedel for an impromptu performance, lifting the mood even further.

Everyone is welcome to open mic nights at the CCCIA on the first Friday of every month.

Open mic nights have become part of our culture, and they’ll most likely be with us forever. For two hours on March 1, a harmonic convergence of musical proportions took over Coal Creek Canyon, inspiring even the stars to align.

The CCCIA is located at 31528 Highway 72. You can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CoalCreekCanyonImprovement Association or call them at 303-642-1540.