Communication, What’s That?
Learn to communicate with other musicians when playing at a blues jam. Have you ever watched musicians on stage ( sometimes they are playing together for the first time) giving each other musical clues about what direction the song is going?
“Medium shuffle in G, quick 4, 2-5 turnaround, TAG the ending but lets start now on the 5 for an intro”. This might be the only directions you receive at a Blues Jam with only 30 seconds to be ready. This could be very intimidating without the right information.
Jam Session™ will focus on Blues and light Rock styles but not exclusively. We will also get you familiar with the Nashville numbering system in order to change song keys effortlessly. The performer should have a basic knowledge of simple blues forms or progressions. A cooperative learning environment is encouraged to share one’s own experience and expertise. Everyone has something to offer.
Why start with the blues?
Blues genre has a simple and universal format meaning no surprises. 3 chords is all you need to get started. Your level of proficiency does not to be high to play with even higher level performers. One scale can cover you 90% of the time. Jam Session is a place where you can learn from other musicians and grow through experiencing playing in a live situation.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
• Have Fun!
• Each student will have the ability to do improvisation over simple blues and rock chord changes.
• Obtain more of a relaxed and confident presentation for performing in Jam Session Open Mic situations.
• Have more confidence in performing ability and a forum to network similar musicians.
• Retain blues playing knowledge, gig preparation guidance and jam veteran advice you need to deliver a confident live performance.
• Network with other musicians for future performances.
• Build a solid foundation on the 12 bar blues form.
• Getting solid with pentatonic minor scales and minor blues scales.
• Students to teach and share their own personal experiences to help others to grow.
FAQ’s
What do I bring to the first class? Vocalists can bring a favorite mic although we supply the sound system.
Guitar and Bass players should bring their own instruments and small amp. Think playing in a average group but everyone needs to be heard. Please no 4×12 stacks with 300 watt amps.
Wind instruments (sax, trumpet, T-bone etc.) should bring their own axe and we do supply a mic if it gets a little loud with the electronic instruments.
How much do I have to know to start the class? A basic understanding of a simple 12 bar blues form. The chords for example are C7 C7 C7 C7 F7F7 C7C7 G7C7 We will help with the right rhythm and individual notes for soloing.
It’s been a long time since I have played with others. Do I have to play by myself right off the bat?
No, no pressure. Everyone is encouraged to move at their own pace. Group lessons and classes are the best place to get your feet wet while still learning. Students are very encouraging with each other and it does not take long to relax and have fun!
Our sister site https://www.jamsessionclass.com/
Class Descriptions
Music Improv Workshop A NEW Introductory Workshop available now! Two consecutive Saturdays 3 hours each to immerse your into the mysteries of playing the blues.
We will touch on what a simple blues progression looks like. How improvisation works. Trying your vocal skills out. What a blues scale is. How to play with others. Strategies for playing the blues and helpful hints on the use of your instrument. HAVING FUN on your instrument.
You need to know at least how to get around on your instrument. Basic chords if you are a fret player, where your notes are if you are a wind or piano player.
2 Consecutive Saturdays
Nothin’ But The Blues – Last offered Spring 2023 This class will focus on Blues We will also get you familiar with the Nashville numbering system in order to change song keys effortlessly. The performer should have a basic knowledge of simple blues forms or progressions. A cooperative learning environment is encouraged to share one’s own experience and expertise. Everyone has something to offer.
Rock Focus – Last Offered Spring 2023
Rock Focus will explore major artists in this Genre such as Allman Bros., Steely Dan,Jeff Beck, Led Zeppelin, and more with suggestions from students.
email us of course jamsession@bassfitz.com
Jam Session Level 1 . . Last Offered, Fall 23 November 7th – 6 week session on Tuesdays, 2 hours each night
This class is a good place to start.
This course is designed for aspiring musicians, beginning to intermediate ability level, who want an outlet to raise their performance comfort levels. Suggested instruments: Guitar, Bass, Keys, Vocal, Drums, Harmonica, Horns . The course will focus on Blues and light Rock styles . The performer should have a working knowledge of simple blues forms or progressions. A cooperative learning environment is encouraged to share one’s own experience, expertise and music. Everyone has something to offer.
In this course, you will be given a number of different practice routines that will help you internalize music with your instrument. It’s very important that you practice these various routines and start thinking critically about what you hear in your playing and the music around you to prepare for that next open mic.
Trying to learn how to play an instrument with others? A little intimidated about improvisation? Have you played for years and would like to get your chops back by jamming with a group? or at a Jam Session? Improvising brings together creativity, ear training, music theory and physical technique creating complete freedom on your instrument.
- I Basic Blues Forms / Blues Scales & Songs in Major Keys
- ii Light Rock and Blues Styles / Blues scales & Songs In Major and Minor Keys
- iii Working as a Team / Listening, Blending
- IV Other Forms / Comparing Styles/ Terminology
- V Creating Solo Motifs
- Vi Putting it all together
Advanced Workshop. .Was Offered again in Fall 11/9/ 2023 6 week session – 2 hours per class
A lot of players take Level 1 first but not necessary for some.
A class designed for the more experienced player. Delving right away into extended chord progressions using I VI ii v turnarounds with some ii – V – I approaches. Student should at least have knowledge of what notes they are playing on their instrument.
Guitarists knowing where all notes are on the neck and what notes make up basic chords (c7 – C Eb G Bb) will help students to be as successful as possible.
Besides reviewing Level 1 techniques we will also cover:
Call and response ear training in 3 chords
Dictation
Improvising from the melody
Minor Blues transcriptions
Writing your own solos
Chords
Creating small groups with the class to work on Band Communication