Pick-in & Jam Circle Etiquette!

1. Typically, the session works in a circle moving towards the right. Each person has the opportunity to pass or play. While originals are usually ok, this is not an "open mic" and songs with simpler chord progressions work best.

2. If it is your turn, it is your lead. Sing loud enough for everyone to hear, nod and make eye contact when offering others a solo break. Make sure other jammers can see you and follow the chords you are playing. Keep solo breaks the length of one verse per player and try to offer a break to anyone who signals they would like a break. Anticipate people singing along, especially during a popular chorus.

3. No jam busters. Generally, a jam buster is any song that has too many chords or odd chord changes for someone to learn on the fly. If you’re not sure if your tune is a jam buster, just ask (though if you have to ask, it probably is).

4. Call out chords if the group is unfamiliar with a tune. If playing an uncommon tune, call out the chords so others can follow your changes. If it’s too hard to do this, the song is probably a jam buster.

5. When it’s not your turn to take a solo, just play rhythms and enjoy listening to your friends in the jam. Playing over other people’s breaks is rude to both the person soloing and other jammers. 

6. If you can’t hear the singer or soloist, play quieter. Listening to others is the entire reason the jam exists.  If you don’t know a tune, play quietly until you get the hang of it.

7. Move away from the circle if you need to speak on your phone or to someone else who is present.

8. Remember that playing in a pick-in or  jam session is not like being on stage. It’s okay to learn as you go along, to make mistakes, to ask questions.

Enjoy yourself!