Jamming Etiquette
by Freddy Villano
Being a first time jammer is a lot like learning how to walk. You’ll have euphoric moments when it all makes sense, but you’re also sure to stumble and question why you ever picked up the instrument in the first place. But always keep in mind the old adage, “it’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get back up.” Speaking from my own experience, I once blew a solo so bad (on bass much less) that I went home and did some serious homework and woodshedding afterwards. The next time I went to the jam I surprised myself by pulling off some riffs and changes that I probably wouldn’t have otherwise tapped into had I not been so frustrated with my previous performance. So, the lesson is–whether a jam goes the way you envision it or not, there’s always something to learn from it. Keep that in mind the next time you head down to your local jam and the forum can become a great teacher for you.
If you’re about to embark upon the open jam scene and have never done it before there are some dos and don’ts you should adhere to, especially if you want to be welcomed back. The rules are, for the most part, unwritten, but there are standards that seasoned jammers generally abide by. Aside from having a grasp on the material (is it a blues jam or a bluegrass jam?), one’s behavior, communication skills and humility can be even more important than having chops. The following are some tips on jamming etiquette that will hopefully make your first-time experience a memorable one.
Introductions – If you don’t know anyone at a particular jam, try to find out who the bandleader is and introduce yourself. Introduce yourself to the regulars. I showed up at my local blues jam a couple of times and hung out, met folks, and socialized before finally bringing my axe to play.
Patience – Don’t expect to show up and immediately play. Sit back, have a beer (not too many though, save that for afterwards), and be a patient, supportive audience member while all of the regulars get to play first. Be prepared to sit through about an hour of other people jamming before you get your turn.
Use The Gear That’s On Hand – Bring your guitar, bass, sax, sticks, whatever, but don’t bring amps or drums; all of that cumbersome (and necessary) gear is generally provided. Turning over the stage from one group of jammers to another often has to happen quickly and no one wants to sit around waiting for you to set up and get your tone. You’ll learn a lot about your own playing when you have to adapt on the fly in less than ideal conditions.
Watch Your Volume – Nobody likes obnoxious musicians, even if they’re good. Really listen and get a sense of the overall group dynamic. Jamming is all about listening to each other and if you’re only listening to yourself, you’re missing the art of the jam. So make sure you can hear everyone else.
Know When To Solo – Really watch, listen and learn about the protocol for soloing. Usually the band or jam leader will cue you when it’s your turn to solo. And by all means, don’t noodle while someone else is soloing or singing. Be a good, sensitive, supportive accompanist as well.
Make Eye Contact – Make sure you’re communicating with your fellow jammers. If your face is buried in the fingerboard of your instrument, you’re going to miss your cue for a solo, turnaround or ending.
Don’t Noodle Between Songs – The bandleader may be calling out a progression or talking to the audience. Or the other musicians might be trying to check their tuning and your thoughtless noodling will only annoy everyone.
Bring A Tuner – Make sure your instrument is in tune when you hit the stage.
Bring A Strap – If it’s a blues jam in a club or bar, chances are you’ll be standing on stage. If it’s a drum circle or acoustic bluegrass/folk jam, bring a chair and be prepared to sit for a while.
Have A Game Plan – Even if you don’t know what you’ll be playing at a jam, do some homework the days and weeks before so that you can find things to work on in the context of the jam. Work on turnarounds, different feels, etc. Use your home practice as preparation for playing live; the opportunity to implement this stuff on your feet will send you home with plenty to think about.
