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HUNTINGDON
VALLEY |
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Jamiquette
Jam etiquette
is important for new jammers to learn. Since we all play together without
any pre-determined parts, jamming provides a very comfortable, open
atmosphere for everyone involved. However, it also means that each member
needs to be aware of the cues that determine break time, starts, stops, tempo,
etc.
Take care that you are keeping the tempo set by the one leading the song - if you are having trouble doing this - then play as softly as you can until you get into the correct rhythm.
Announce the song's key before starting each tune or song.
Announce the chords if some one is not familiar with the tune.
Breaks go around clock-wise. Usually each player gets a a chance to break or pass on each song. When there is an audience there for whom so many breaks might make the song endless, some exceptions might be made .
Other players lower their volume while some one takes a break.
Players may skip their turn at a break at their discretion. Signal your pass by taking a step back or shaking your headIf a player falters during a break: he/she is allowed the opportunity to recover before the next player in the circle takes over. Other players keep the song going while the breaker tries to recover - a "miss" is never a strike-out. Once recovered, the break order continues as usual.
Players should clearly signal the next player in the circle if they want him/her to take over.
The end of the song in Slow Jam is signaled in advance by the last person or the song leader or the group leader lifting his foot up forward in the air . Everyone should prepare to follow that person as closely as possible in his final "phrasing" so that everyone ends at precisely the same time.
When the player next to you does not know the chords and you do, tell them quietly or turn so they can watch your fingering .Jams are not the time for music lessons. Don't ask other players how to play a certain lick during a jam. Save it for a one-on-one later, pause time or a workshop. Likewise with long conversations about the song or other things of interest. A brief question is OK - but remember the entire group is waiting for the next song.
Tune your instruments!
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