How to Have an Acoustic Jam

Next time you and your musically inclined friends are gathered around a campfire or a coffee table, consider a good old fashioned jam session to entertain players and observers alike.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A relaxed setting with good seating
• Acoustic instruments, as available
• A basic knowledge of the instrument you're about to play

1. Start with a cozy setting. Arrange the seats in a circle or at least in a way that makes it possible to see all the other players. Some musicians like to rely on watching a more experienced person and just following along.

2. Bring instruments; the more the better. Guitars, mandolins, banjos and fiddles are great options for stringed instruments. Percussion can be even more accessible for the musical novice, so a variety of hand drums, shakers, woodblocks and tambourines can be fun for participants of all ability levels.

3. Pick a song that will be easy for everyone. Ask around in the group what people already know how to play or identify the chords that everyone feels comfortable with.

4. Talk things through before starting. Whoever is most familiar with the chosen song should walk the others through the chord progressions and overall structure until a basic understanding is grasped by all.

5. Start playing! Let people fall into the song as they find their footing and try to address any problems as they are encountered.

6. Repeat, repeat, repeat!

Tips & Warnings

• Most musicians, even beginners, know the chords G, C and D. There are tons of songs that use just those three chords.
• Try bringing a songbook along for everyone to peruse while picking songs.
• Can be highly addictive.