The Bridge is more than just a coffee shop.
With its galleries, musical performances and other events, it is also a place where students can connect and share their creativity.
“It has been the vision of management to offer a music night every month, along with monthly gallery openings, to promote and support other local small-businesses and artists in their unique talents,” said Assistant Manager Bethany Berning.
One of the main ways they fulfill this goal is through music. Once a month, The Bridge hosts a special musical event. On alternating months this event is either a themed open mic night or a performance by professional, local musicians.
Members of the community, including Taylor students, are invited to participate and share their talents with Upland as a whole. Many, such as junior Heidi Davis, have found it to be a positive experience.
“We actually had an incredible response and had a guy offer to have us record with him,” Davis said. “I hope we play again!”
Davis performed at the Sept. 27 open mic night with her friend, senior Mallory Tyree. Tyree knew about the event because of her job at The Bridge and invited Davis to perform with her.
While such music events have been happening at The Bridge for years, they have been held more frequently in recent months. Berning enjoys meeting new artists that come out to share their work.
“Performing can be such a vulnerable, unpredictable experience for each musician,” Berning said. “So to have performers want to share their God-given talents with our community is exciting, humbling and a blessing to be a part of.”
She also said she likes seeing new and familiar faces of audience-goers who come to see the shows. Many also stop by for a treat, because The Bridge offers a 20% discount on all drinks at special events.
Berning also said she always found crowds at these events to be positive and uplifting. Davis also expressed her appreciation for those who come to such events.
“It's so important to support local musicians and friends, just like you would go to a friend's sports game,” Davis said.
On Nov. 2, The Bridge will host an art gallery opening for “Scallywag” by graduate student Taylor Thomas. The next music event will be a Christmas-themed worship night in December.
Musicians interested in performing at The Bridge can reach out to Berning at thebridgeuplandevents@gmail.com and stay updated on future events by following the Bridge on Instagram and Facebook.
