Toronto-based singer/songwriter Trish Robb kicked off the jam session with a handful of original songs before stepping back to act as judge and the evening’s host.

Students from Mohawk’s music program, as well as a handful of other programs, came out to show off their original compositions and musical talent, despite many finding out about the event on short notice. Music student Heather Scott, who followed up Robb’s performance with a cover of Janis Joplin’s “Me and Bobby McGee”, said she learned about open-mic night the day before. Nick Rendeiro, another music student, said he found out the day of.

“People could have prepared more,” said Rendeiro. “I mean, I just got up there. But I was happy for the opportunity.”

A faulty guitar cable hindered Rendeiro’s performance, but he still enjoyed his time on stage.

“I think we have to have more open-mic nights, considering the fact we have a great stage and venue here,” he said.

“And so many talented people,” added Scott.

With the ratio of acoustic guitars to audience members close to one to one, non-acoustic performances stood out. Cody Johnson showed off his incredible piano skills while wearing an Iron Maiden t-shirt. Justin Golan took home the top prize of a $200 gift card for his incredible beatboxing skills. Golan replicated the sounds of dubstep, turntables, and even videogames, all with the muscles in his mouth.

“We need to do this more,” said Golan of open-mic night. “I really didn’t find out about it until today.”

Golan is studying piano at Mohawk, but has been beatboxing for over 10 years.

“I was going to play piano, but there wasn’t a piano here (earlier in the night), so I thought I’d just beatbox,” said Golan.