Yes! You’ve reached the part where the action is. You are about to join a jam session!
All jam sessions have their own specific ways of organizing. Most of the times there will be a house band with a singer or instrumentalist, who also functions as the host of the session. To kick off the night, they will usually play a few songs or a whole set. After that, he or she will invite you on the stage when it’s your turn.
At jam sessions, it’s always wise to come early. Sometimes there will be a list at the door, or at the end of the bar. Sometimes you are expected to sign in earlier and drop by in the afternoon to leave your name on a list. Yes, also in this digital day and age… Other times you can contact the session leader through e-mail and reserve a spot.
For jazz clubs and their sessions worldwide check this site: www.jazz-clubs-worldwide.com
Some sessions are very ‘singer-friendly’, while others tend to be more instrumental sessions. Have fun checking them out, ask around and make friends wherever you go! Sessions (and clubs) come and go, so always check on the internet, or try to contact the venue before you head out to a club, to be sure there is a session going on that specific night. Get there about half an hour before. Introduce yourself to the session leader in person before they start or in the break, so he or she knows that you are interested in joining the band for a song.
It can be a rollercoaster. Having to wait. Feeling your nerves. Just enjoy the music that others are making and drink a lot of water or tea. Stay away from too much alcohol. It will have a drying effect on your vocal chords.
There are four things every musician will want to know from you when you come on stage:
- the song title,
- the key,
- the style (or feel)
- and the tempo.
Always be aware of that, it will make your communication with the band so much easier.
It’s your turn! Hurray! Go to the stage and hand each of your musicians a music sheet (luckily you brought 3 sheets, remember?), then communicate the style and tempo to the leader of the band. Often this is the pianist or guitarist.
A wonderful thing, but very often overlooked due to your nerves: acknowledge that there are people in the audience, who are willing to listen to you. Say hello and tell them something, either about you, about the place or about the song; maybe you found some interesting or funny background information? (Today Gershwin would have turned a hundred years old) Maybe you have a personal connection with the song? Such an introduction of a song will help you to calm down, feel more at ease on stage and make a connection with your audience. It will help your audience get used to you, to see you as a person and learn a thing or two.
Use your first few moments on stage to connect. With yourself, your musicians and your audience. Don’t rush. Take a little time and relax. Breath. Smile. Everything is under control. (Even if you feel your heart pounding; that just means you’re alive!).
Assignment
Visit a jam session; just to observe, analyze and get used to the atmosphere. All jam sessions have a different ‘vibe’. Find one that suits you.
