While every jam is slightly different, there tend to be some common threads that run through them. Following a few basic guidelines can help you seamlessly join the next jam that you visit. 

• Be observant! There are a lot of unspoken customs that include:

  • How songs are selected​

  • Types of songs selected

  • Who leads each selection

  • How instrumental "breaks" are determined

  • It's okay to ask if you're not picking it up.

• Be in tune!

  • Tune to a standard A=440. Being in tune with the group is extremely important.

  • Re-check often - especially when using a capo.

  • Investing in an electronic, clip-on tuner is a life-saver. (They've become very affordable)

    • Click here for a page on tuners!​

• Be prepared to pick a song - or two!​

  • If you don't feel comfortable singing it or leading it, you can always ask if someone else can.​

  • Pick another in case your first choice gets selected by someone else. 

  • It's always okay to pass, but people want to play what you know so do try to think of one.

• Avoid "Jam Busters"

  • These are songs that don't fit the genre, are very complex, or aren't prepared to be performed at a typical tempo.​

  • Choose a song that follows a predictable structure.

  • Few chord changes are best.

  • Common keys like G, C, A, and D

  • If it's an instrumental piece, a simple version - played at a more typical tempo - is a much better choice than a "fancy" version that needs to be slowed down too much. 

• It's not an Open Mic

  • People gather at jams to play together. That's what makes them so special. ​

• Play so others can hear themselves. This is especially true:​​

  • During instrumental breaks​

  • While a vocalist is singing

• Have fun and don't worry about perfection. You are your harshest critic!