Rascal's Corner

There is a fantastic Theory Book out by David Harp. He not only describes the theory behind 'Letter names of notes', 'Roman numeral names, chords, rhythm, all kind of different scales, how to play any type of music, he also puts a lot of emphasis informing the reader of his book about etiquette and general jam participation.  Here it goes:

How to Play Confidently With Other Musicians

There are four pieces of advice by David Harp which will allow you to play confidently with other musicians: 

1. Know the Language
2. Be Honest About Your Abilities
3. Observe Jamming Etiquette
4. When in Doubt -- Sit Out

By Knowing the Language, he means that it's important to know how to read -- and write -- simple chord charts:  Scrawling out a copy of the "changes" for each player has saved many a jam session! Try to memorize the I, IV and V chord.  These are typical Bluegrass chords.  If another chord is thrown in and if time permits, ask someone (IF there is time) to run the chords down for you.  If in doubt -- Sit Out!

Being Honest About Your Abilities, i.e.,  be open about the level of your ability.  If the jam takes place in a public place and you are not ready to solo, just pluck softly along and let the group know that you will not take a lead on your instrument. 

Unfortunately, there is no Miss Manners to tell us about Jamming Etiquette.  Most important: It's better to play too little than too much.  If you are asked to sit in, try not to insert your playing into every second of the song.  Let the other musicians ask you to play more, not less.  Be especially careful about playing when a vocalist is singing, or when another instrumentalist is taking a "solo" or "lead" which means "creating an improvisation," which is usually done one musician at a time.  Last but not least, observe the leader of the group as he/she will give you a signal by hand or body language that one of the players should solo, or that everyone should be silent for a few beats, or exactly when to end a piece.

When in Doubt -- Sit Out. If you aren't sure you know a song, even if you have been sitting in successfully, have the sense to sit that one out.  As the old saying goes:  "When in Doubt--Sit out." 

If you are interested in purchasing the book; it is by David Harp: Music Theory Made Easy ISBN -018321-99-9 (www.davidharp.com)

The above information has helped me a lot and I hope that the above excerpts of Harp's book will help you along with successful jam'n around Texas or wherever you will be.

Storytelling is always great, but keep in mind that the audience comes for the music.  I have heard top musician get carried away with their past time stories and bore the audience. 

Finally, if you have a story or some tidbits to share on our website, leave a feedback.

Sigi,  the "Rascal"