Grey Horse Tavern Hosts Open Mic Night

The historic in Bayport held its ritual open mic event Tuesday night, making it the new local hot spot for music and dining.

'The People's Open Mic,' was hosted by , 32, who grew up in Bayport. Groney is currently the lead singer and guitarist of Patchogue's popular, electronica/ noise jam band that often performs in sci-fi themed attire. Groney is no stranger to open mic events and knew it would be a popular evening.

The Grey Horse has been home to the open mic since February.  It was featured at the for about a year and a half prior to that. Ryan Murray, 30, the Grey Horse's bartender brought the idea to Groney.

"We relocated as a team," said Groney. "He [Murray] used to bartend at the Sage."

Murray said the response at their new location has been phenomenal.  "It's busier here than it ever was at the Sage," he said.

Groney knows how valuable an opportunity it is for a fledgling performer to be featured in an open mic setting, since he got his start at one such event held at .

Murray said the response at their new location has been phenomenal.  It's busier here than it ever was at the Sage."

Many singer-songwriters can be seen accompanied by instruments such as guitar, bass, keyboard and ukulele.  Poetry, stand-up comedy and storytelling has also made its way onto the diverse showcase.

"It's a very eclectic bunch.  Everybody's got their art," Groney said.  "People write for themselves but most people want to share what they've created.  It's nice to perform in a place where all forms of art are available and encouraged."

On a typical Tuesday, 6 to 10 performers take the stage for about 20 minutes each.  Busier nights can include up to 15 acts.  Those interested in performing are advised to be there by 9 p.m. to secure their place.

This type of off-the-cuff evening is an ideal way to shake off the mid-week doldrums for performers and audience members alike.

"I feel open mic night is best on a Tuesday or Wednesday," Groney said.

Co-owner of the Grey Horse Tavern, Linda Ringhouse, said, "We've always been about music here.  When Ryan came he gave us the idea.  It was a good fit to bring in a lot of music that we might not play on the weekend."

One of the performers this past Tuesday was Jonathan Lesley Habers, 34, a singer-songwriter and bass player who rendered an intense set of all original music.  He goes to the Grey Horse as often as he can to hone his craft.

"It's beautiful ... the wood makes the sound reverberate so this is the best place to practice.  I love this place," Habers said.  "I've met so many musicians and people that are really cool just being here."

Take in the talent on Tuesday nights while enjoying half price pints of beer on tap and $3 cans of craft beer after 10 p.m. Open mic starts at 9 p.m. Admission is free.