Learning to Jam

[Mark]

I am interested to know how one goes about learning how to jam if they have never done so before. I have been playing guitar for a couple of years and have a lot to learn but would like to grow to where I can play with others and learn more...are there beginner jamming sessions out there somewhere?

I appreciate your thoughts.

[Steve Johnson]

Hey Mark. My name is Steve, and I'm one of the guitar instructors at the Fiddle and Pick. I'm always excited when people have an interest in jamming, so your question immediately grabbed my attention! I never had any formal lessons, and taught myself how to play from Mel Bay books. I gotta tell you, I learned more in 2 months of jamming than I did in 2 years of playing alone! You can't imagine how resourceful it is!
There are numerous playing opportunities at the Fiddle and Pick (at least 2 per week), and they cover various styles of playing. There is Old Time, Bluegrass, Irish, Swing, Gypsy Jazz, etc. What genre do you think you may be interested in?
As far as being a beginner, you shouldn't worry about that at all. ANYONE is welcome in the jams, regardless of talent level. One of the things I love most about the jams is that EVERYONE is made to feel welcome. If there is a song that you're comfortable playing, you just jump right in. If there's a song that you're not sure about, you can sit and listen, or you can ask me or any other player to show you how it's played, and we will be more than happy to show you!
I would recommend starting at the Old Time or Bluegrass jams, only because the music is generally more straight-forward, with less chord changes and easier timing. For people who are just getting in to playing music with others, it seems to make it an easier transition. The Old Time jam is on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, and the Bluegrass Jam is on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. Both start around 8PM and go 'til everyone is tired of playing!
I look forward to meeting you at one of the jams, and if you have any questions at all, please feel free to send me a note!
Thanks for your interest,
Steve

[Mark]

Steve, thank you so much for taking time to write such an encouraging reply! You make it sound so easy....and I know that I need to give it a try...but I've never played in front of or with anyone other than my teacher and my wife...so, I am sure you remember being nervous and intimidated your first time or two out. Are there any basic skills that I need to make sure that I have before giving this a try? I am primarily interested in bluegrass but I am open to other styles as I improve.

Thanks again.

[Karl Kersey]

Mark,

I too am a teacher at Fiddle and Pick and agree completely with Steve. There are always more things to learn, the best thing is just to come on out. Bring your guitar and maybe a capo. The old-time and bluegrass jams are good places to start.

KK

[Steve Johnson]

First time or two! I wasn't comfortable for MANY times out!!! However, I didn't have such an inviting venue or group of people with whom to play! Everything at the Fiddle and Pick is very inviting and open, and everyone I've met there (and I've met just about all of them!), is extremely nice and encouraging, and is also willing to answer any questions that anyone may have. Karl is right in suggesting you bring a capo. Capos make the world 'round!

[Clair Gant]

Hi! I'm new to this group and am interested in Jamming also. These sessions you mentioned are open to all and we just show up? If so I'll see you Thursday.

[Warren Bone]

I think the standing schedule is this:

Old Time jam sessions on 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month
Bluegrass jams on 1st and 3rd Thursdays
Swing/Jazz/Django jams 2nd and 4th Thursdays.

But look at EVENTS here to make sure of what's going on week by week.

In my case I've played mostly rhythm guitar backing others up...for many years. So I come to the jam sessions to stretch my technique -- to learn some solo licks and styles.

Just bring your guitar and capo and picks (and a dollar for the tip jar to help Gretchen keep this place open!) and you'll have fun for sure.

See ya,
warren.

[Mark]

Well, I finally did it...I participated in my very first bluegrass jam! Thanks to Warren and Mark and everyone else in the group for being so welcoming and accommodating. I actually knew several songs and felt good about playing along...got a lot to learn but I took my fist big step last night. I'll definitely be back!

Thanks!

[Steve Johnson]

You're absolutely right. Just bring your instrument and the desire to play. I am always at the Bluegrass Jam, so show up around 8PM, and find me. We'll have a ton of fun!
Hope to see you there,
Steve

[Mark]

You guys are great to be so accommodating. I will definitely have to give it a try..I look foreward to meeting you all.

Thanks again for the welcoming support.

Mark

[Kirk Pickering]

In my opinion, one of the most important skills in playing with others is to develop the art of listening. My recommendation would be to attend as many jam sessions as possible, but focus on listening more than playing. Play softly behind others, and listen for how the other musicians contribute something to the sonic palette. You'll eventually find your voice in the ensemble sound. Don't be afraid or intimidated -- we all have to start somewhere. Do be respectful of the music and the ensemble sound, and you'll be on your way to jamming joy, both for yourself and for your musical partners.

[Mark]

Hey, Steve...I think I may be able to make the jam this Thursday...will you be there? I would love to take you up on your offer to "show me the ropes"!

Mark

[Paul Abrams]

There is a beginning improv/jazz class starting tonight at 6:00 if you're interested in acquiring some skills.
Paul Abrams- Instructor