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Comments from
a visitor to this
Website...
I enjoyed your comments on
"Bluegrass Etiquette" but I sure wish you would expand upon it. I once
saw a list which included much of what you said but also added several
other 'suggestions'. Among those suggestions were comments related to the
following:
1. Consider your ability to jam with the group you are considering
joining. If not, play in the background. You did mention playing in the
background.
2. Some instruments don't really belong in many jams - spoons -
zithers - harmonicas - washboards to name a few. Admitted in some
get-togethers you will find these but normally they are not welcome.
3. Never play 'directly in the ear' of another player. Banjos and
guitars, though loved are not appreciated when played in such a manner.
4. Remember that most bluegrass jams are actually bluegrass jams.
While many like Johnny Cash and that venue of music, others don't. Your
comment regarding listening to see how true to bluegrass the jam is can
help in determining just how welcome other venues of music might be.
I know not all agree with the above but most of those that I jam with
do. Each to his own and each jam sets its own style.
Bluegrass Etiquette
Bluegrass is arguably the most social of all music forms, and jamming is a form of communication that transcends all others...You will meet people from all walks of life making music in their own way.
Rules for the Bluegrass Jam:
Usually each song has two parts or themes. These themes are usually eight bars each, but may vary with the individual song. Generally the first theme is played twice, then the second theme is played twice. Then the whole song is repeated in this manner enough times to give each instrument one or two breaks while the other instruments play the rhythm.
1. Be patient with newcomers; help them if you can.
2. Let others know when you are not jamming but rehearsing.
3. Take turns when selecting the tunes.
4. Step back, take a minute to tune your instrument.
5. Keep your rhythm steady, and try to compliment the person who is playing the lead. Sometimes the sheer volume of the rhythm instruments makes it difficult for the lead instrument to be heard. Everybody should work together to make a good sound.
These tunes come from a simpler time. One technique used in Bluegrass Music is to play the tune close to the way it was originally written the first time through, then improvise as the chord progression is repeated over and over.
Bluegrass is Good... Happy Picking...