We had another great workshop with Michaela and Ryan on 8/31 about Folk Jamming. Here are some takeaways
The purpose of a jam is for everyone to enjoy playing music together. The jam leader, or person leading the song, sets the group up for success.
– Know your song
– Tell the group the title of your song, key and chords. If it takes a long time to explain it, if it is complicated with lots of chords, your chances of group success decreases.
– Helpful to know the Nashville Number System (I, IV, V) for chords. It makes it easier to explain the song.
– Set the tempo. Start by humming it and then tapping it out.
– Leader sings verses. Group sings choruses together.
– Solos come after the chorus.
– Stick foot out to indicate end of song is coming at next logical place.
– Turning neck of instrument indicates something will repeat.
– Holding up raised neck of instrument signals that something different is happening – like slowing down for an ending.
How to pass breaks
– A dialogue needs to happen such as “all banjos” “all guitars”.
– The silent way is to look at the person you want to play, get eye contact, look for a nod or shake, might need to move to the next person, so give yourself time.
– Before the song, you can ask who would like to take breaks.
