Being the co-host of the Thursday Tunes Jam Session has been a real joy. I feel like our last jam reached a new level of expression for our musicians. We had a positive vibe going, with a good rotation of musicians at each instrument, and a constant flow of creative ideas on the stage.
As a keyboard player, I really enjoyed hearing some of the other keyboard players, Naro and Brian. Naro has an awareness and presence when he plays, with rhythm and dynamic support for the group. Brian played some awesome blues. It was really beautiful to hear how both these guys were heard without stepping on anybody's toes. They are masters of backing off and accenting at the right moment.
The question was brought to me about what our jam is, and what are the expectations. For me, the jam is an opportunity for musicians to come together and express themselves. We encourage new arrangements of musicians and the emergence of new styles. Sometimes we play covers of songs that have some space to jam (we've got a book of chords to choose from), and sometimes we just jam on spontaneous chord progressions or the blues. It would be great to see somebody explain how to play an original song and do that too.
Mostly we encourage people to come together on the stage, but I think it's acceptable if a group or individual wants to perform a couple songs on their own to get some exposure and experience. But even then maybe it is best if the door is open for others to contribute their own musical energy, and the original members might open their ears to a new idea. Nobody should feel excluded in our jam session.
A highlight of the night was when the musicians really got rockin' and people jumped up on the floor to dance. Roberto had the energy going on the drums, and it was great playing with him. I also enjoyed complimenting Danielle's singing on the melodica. And it was great backing up "We don't need no education" on the melodica, while Danielle added a melody from another song (what was it again??).
Neil is an experienced musician and jam session host, so it's fun working with him. Oftentimes he is directing things at the stage, while I am mingling with the audience to find out who is waiting for a chance to get up on the stage with some complimentary musicians.
In the end I'm really happy to help manifest an environment that is fun for musicians and people who just enjoy listening to live music. It's cozy, welcoming, and René is always there to chat it up at the bar (he has some crazy stories...ask him about Brazil!)
Our next jam is posted as an event on Facebook.
Check out the new website for our beautiful venue, CC Muziekcafé.
Join the Thursday Tunes group on Facebook.
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