What IS a "Jammer"?

What's A "Jammer"?

In reading the definition for the word "jammer", you may have noticed that the musical context is pretty far down the list...and pretty vague too.

As a noun, in regard to music, a jammer is someone that participates in jam sessions. Jam sessions can be described as when 2 or more musicians play music together in an improvisational manner (as opposed to a rehearsed, well-practiced manner).

With regard to this website and whom it caters to...I consider a jammer to be anyone that likes music enough to try and play an instrument to the best of their ability.

I believe that the act of jamming is essential for a person to become, and continue to be a good musician. Jamming is where you find your real limitations, and are free to exceed them. Jamming is where you become so intimate with your instrument, you find you can use it for effective self-expression. Jamming is where you find that jamming can also be described as a kind of "conversation" between musicians...in a language most people don't really know, yet understand on a variety of levels.

Jamming Etiquette

What does it take to be a jammer? Well...on this website, just desire. But in the "real world", you need to be at a certain level of musicianship to be able to "hold your own" among those you intend to jam with.

You also need to have any necessary equipment you need for your instrument to be heard. Always keep in mind that Jam/Open Mic hosts are usually volunteers and rarely get paid for their efforts. They're using their own equipment and sometimes a "house" P.A. system...they can't afford to supply your equipment too! Don't forget you are a guest, it's the host's gig.

You should know at least a few basic tunes that everyone else knows, or at least be familiar enough with them to keep up. A good thing to do is just listen to a few sessions first, get a feel for what's happening, then sign up or otherwise ask to join in when you think you're ready. Be prepared, and be flexible.

Be aware of any posted rules or sign-up sheets, and always be friendly, courteous and polite, even if it doesn't seem like the "regulars" are...it's kind of a test. Besides, you can never be sure why anyone - especially a musician - acts the way they do. I'm not saying to expect this to happen, just that it can happen. My own experiences have been very positive, with only 1 or 2 occasions of poor "jammer-ship".

Sometimes musicians, even good ones, have times where they can't find "that" tone or otherwise just don't seem to be at the top of their game. Some react poorly and take it out on those around them...some handle it OK, but still may give you the impression that you did something to upset them.

How you react may well be the first real impression you make on these people, so it's important that you don't take it personally and rise above it by remaining calm and courteous. Give them room to mellow out as needed, and you'll leave a better impression in the end.

It's important to remember that jam sessions are not the place for massive egos...no "stars" or "guitar gods" are welcome usually. Jamming is an exercise in sharing, give and take and cooperativeness. Be as ready to give up your turn as you are to take it. You need to have ego enough to join in and take part, but not so much as to think people came just to hear you. Even if you're hosting the jam, and you're jamming on your own tune...expect to share with other players.

In short, with a little patience, common sense and a bit of talent...you'll be jammin'!.

© Copyright 2001 by the author - Dave Sawyer

Other Pages On Jam Session Etiquette:

• Ed's Etiquette For The Power Surge Open Mic/Jam
• Cosmic Debris Musicians Magazine / Doug Cox on Jamming / Vancouver Island Area
• SEBA Newsletter Sample: Intro To Bluegrass Jamming
• Jam Session Etiquette - Voyager Recordings and Publications: Old Time Fiddle Music
• Jam Session Rules
• Jazz Institute of Chicago July-August 2001
• BLUES ACCESS Online: Journeyman's Road
• Jam Session Etiquette