Jamming Etiquette
Many old-time banjo players agree that the best part about playing this instrument is participating in jams. Old-time jams typically differ from bluegrass jams in that the players all play together, and no one takes an instrumental break. Normally, everyone sits in a circle so you can hear what others are playing. In some jams, players take turns calling the tunes (for example, in clockwise order). In other jams, there may be a leader (usually a fiddler) who pretty much determines the tunes that are played.
Newcomers are often apprehensive about participating in a jam because they’re not sure what to do. Every jam varies, but here are some general guidelines and tips regarding old-time jam etiquette for the new player:
- Choose an appropriate instrument. Almost always, electric instruments are not welcome. In some cases, percussion is not allowed.
- Distinguish between serious jams and casual jams. In a serious jam, beginners usually aren’t welcome and you’re probably better off just listening. In a casual jam, everyone is welcome.
- Stick with the same key. Banjo players (and sometimes fiddlers) use a different tuning for each key. Old-time jams typically include a long string of tunes in the same key.
- Make sure that your banjo is in tune. Often, the group tuning "drifts" over time, and you can no longer rely on your clip-on tuner. Normally, you’ll want to be in tune with the fiddler.
- Know the old-time repertoire. Usually, bluegrass tunes aren’t welcome at an old-time jam—although there are some tunes that work as both bluegrass and old-time.
- Don’t be afraid to sit outside of the circle and play along quietly. That’s a good way to get comfortable with the jamming environment.
- Bring a list of tunes that you can play, sorted by key. If you’re called upon to suggest a tune, you’ll have some choices.
- If you also play guitar, try to position yourself across from a guitar player. That way, you can watch the chords to help orient yourself to unfamiliar tunes.
- Keep track of the tunes that are played that you don’t know. That way, you can work on them for next time.
- Don’t spend too much time worrying about what others think of your playing. Unless you’re really loud, most of the other players won’t even notice you because they’re concentrating on their own playing.