June 1-7, 2008

 

 

 

Jam Sessions

 

We'll have at least three types of jams :

  • Impromptu jams that just spring up around the camp

  • Our jam classes; these are held once daily as regular classes

  • Our evening jam sessions, listed below

Now, if you feel intimidated, unsure, inexperienced, or just plain nervous, we have some jams just for you.

Keep in mind that playing at home is one thing; making music with others really takes you to a new level.  At first it may be a little scary, but it’ll soon turn into a lot of fun.  Some reasons you might hesitate:

  • “They’re going to hear me mess up.”  No, they’re all busy trying to do their own thing.  Very rarely in the average jam does anyone even hear the stuff you’re doing, since they’re worried about their own.

  • “I’ll make mistakes.”  Yes, you probably will, as everyone does, and if you’re not beating the daylights out of your instrument, you’re the only one who will hear them.

  • “I’ll be put on the spot.”  No, in a jam, you can always choose to hang back.  If anyone calls on you to take a solo, a shake of your head is a perfectly legitimate response.

  • “I can’t keep up.”  Maybe so, maybe not.  If you can’t, you can still play the chords or notes that sound OK to you as the music passes by.

The fact is that just like that cold water, it’s sometimes a bit scary to jump in the first time, but once you’re used to it, you’re telling everyone that they should jump in; whatta bunch of weenies!

 

OK, so here are our evening jams.  Try them out—trust us!

 

Folk Jam.  This will be especially for beginners and will include many of the great old standard folk songs, and a helping of stuff from the Folk Scare of the ‘60s.  If you love to sing the old songs, come on out whether you’re willing to play or not.

 

Bluegrass Jam.  Again, this is especially for beginners.  Our jam leader will get you going with some great old bluegrass songs that prove that you don’t have to be a virtuoso to have a lot of fun playing and singing.

 

Honky-Tonk Jam.  This will be for folks who are a little more advanced, heading towards intermediate, but everyone is welcome.  You'll do a lot of good old bar songs, some old Hank Williams, and some cry-in-your-beer, Mom-ran-over-my-dog-with-her-pickup songs.

 

Swing Jam.  This is for intermediate players, and you'll get introduced to a great mix of swing standards.  You'll also learn how to fake around some of the tough chords.  You’ll have a great time.