Jamming Etiquette

If it’s your turn to lead a song, here are a few tips:

• Pick a tune that’s easy for other people to follow. Announce the name of the
  tune, and the key. Don’t use odd keys, it might be easy enough if you’re
  using a capo on a guitar, but it might be very tricky for some other
  instruments. Explain if there are any unusual chord patterns.
• While you’re playing and singing, keep an eye on the other participants, to
  see if anyone wants to play an instrumental break – these usually occur after
  a chorus, and the verse is the part that’s usually played in a break. Watch for
  anyone giving you a nod to indicate they’d like to play a break, and
  acknowledge their nod. Give a firm nod at the end of the next chorus to let
  them know that they can start playing their lead instrumental.
• It is best to learn the song(s) that you plan to play at the jam, so that you’re
  not staring at a piece of paper while you’re leading a tune.

If you’re playing along while somebody else leads a song:

• Play quietly, as there will be lots of other people playing too, and it’s
  important to allow the singer to be heard, and to be able to hear any
  instrumentals that may be played. If you’re having difficulty hearing the
  singer or instrumentalist, then you’re playing too loudly.
• If you’d like to take a lead instrumental break, make eye contact with the
  leader of the song, and nod to let him/her know that you’re ready to play a
  lead break. The leader should acknowledge your nod, and give you a firm
  nod at the end of the next chorus.
• If it’s your turn to play, either introduce your song, or skip your turn and pass
  it along to the person on your left. Make your intention clear.
• Just remember, the whole idea is to have fun making music together, it’s not
  to show off how you can play complicated and unusual tunes. Be considerate
  of others, and have fun!