Ledyard High School offers a unique opportunity to perform and express yourself through its monthly coffee houses. Students from all grades come together for a night of music and cheer. There are no auditions, it is simply an open mic.

Events are held in the cafeteria and are open to anyone. The first coffee house was held at Ledyard 14 years ago. Spanish teacher Mr. Jannke has been operating the event for the last 12. Each year, there are four coffee houses in October, December, March and May. The May event is held in the courtyard and students bring blankets for the grass for a night of music. The May coffee house is typically the most special and has the tendency to run a little later than the norm of 7-9 pm due to extra incentive to participate at the last opportunity of the year. Performers share a variety of talents ranging from piano to slam poetry. There are soloists, groups and even the occasional dance. Students often partake in improv throughout the show.

As another incentive, the event provides cookies, cupcakes, coffee and hot chocolate courtesy of the group. The event is open to all who wish to attend, performers or viewers. Sometimes alumni make a special appearance after returning home from their freshmen year of college.

Jannke, the main advisor, describes his experience with the group as exciting and says that he is “looking forward to this last one because of the senior class.” He also adds, “I am close to the senior class because my son is in it.”

There may be some nostalgia at this final event to conclude another year of performing. When asked about his favorite part of the coffee houses, Jannke says, “The most rewarding part of being the advisor is to watch the kid’s confidence grow from freshmen to senior year and to see their peers enthusiastically supporting them.”

The final coffee house is scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m. Students can sign up in Room 211.

Samantha Barnes, Social Media Editor

Senior Samantha Barnes is the Social Media Editor of the 2015-2016 Colonel. She is the secretary of Student Congress and competitively horseback rides. She will attend Fairfield University to study Business next fall.