Spotlight On: Acoustic Jam Session

Spotlight On: Acoustic Jam Session

Most of my friends know that I love music. I live and breathe it. Shameless plug here: www.yods.bandcamp.com

Often, I’ve wished there was more music out here. More bands that weren’t playing “Sweet Home Alabama” at the local bar at 9 pm, but playing their own stuff in the park, a house show, or the local coffee house. More inspired, and less recycled. I think this next feature is a step in the right direction.

As part of our ongoing series, we are interviewing people of interest in the area who are having a positive impact on our community. This time, we reached out to Stephan Bork, who is starting an acoustic jam session in Bishop every 2nd and 4th Tuesday from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.

Stephan, what inspired you to start hosting these acoustic jam sessions?

I have played in jams in the past and it is my favorite way to play music and sing. Since moving here full time six years ago, I’ve been unable to find other people to play music with so I just decided to make a broad appeal to bring together local players who want the same thing.

Why did you choose Bishop City Park as the location?

I wanted a neutral, no-fee, accessible location where people could feel comfortable meeting. The park is a pleasant setting with a lot of shade and I selected a quiet area just east of the pond. Seating is not available so bringing a chair is recommended. As time goes on, we might choose other venues.

What makes this jam session different from an open mic?

Open mics are good for people who want to perform for an audience. In a jam session like this, everyone joins in the music and it’s not about solo performing. One benefit of jam sessions is that you don’t need to have great skills to enjoy playing in a group. All you really need is the ability to play basic chords and keep time with the others. When you’re in a group, the music can sound good even if you miss a chord or make some other mistake.

What does a typical jam session look like?

Jams I’ve been in follow a few basic rules and patterns. Typically, players will arrange in a circle and take turns leading whatever songs they like. Whoever leads can either bring some photocopies of the song lyrics with chords to hand out or simply describe the chords so that others can follow along. There are usually opportunities to harmonize with the singer and trade off doing little riffs as appropriate. When the song is done, the next person in the circle gets to lead their chosen song.

How do you encourage shy or newer musicians to join in?

The whole idea is to have fun playing music with other people. There is no competition or pressure to perform, and in this jam, all experience levels are welcome. I have found that jam session musicians are typically very accommodating with other players so everyone should expect to feel comfortable playing at their own skill level. Playing regularly with other people is also a great way to hone your skills.

Thanks to Stephan for answering our questions! The acoustic jam sessions will be every 2nd and 4th Tuesday in the Bishop City Park from 5:30pm to 7:30pm near the east edge of the pond!

TM Rush