Etiquette

Etiquette for Jams 

• Have fun, be courteous and considerate!
• Arrive early to set up and tune your instrument.
• Everyone, regardless of music ability is invited and encouraged to join the jam circle. Come practiced and prepared.
• Be respectful of all, no matter their skill level. If you are unfamiliar with the song, do not try to be in the lead. This is not a competition but a chance to enjoy music by our local amateur musicians.
• Watch for the Master of Ceremonies to tell you when it’s your turn. Announce your song title and key loud enough for all to hear.
• Pay close attention to the singer for the song title and key.
• If you don’t know the song, play quietly until you’re sure you’ve got it.
• Have two songs ready, preferably songs everyone knows or that are easy for people to follow. We will do our best to allow each jammer in the circle to perform two songs.
• Try to pick songs that are shorter in length as we have lots of jammers to take their turn at the microphone.
• Lower your volume so you are not louder than the person leading the song. Likewise, if you are leading, try to play and sing loudly.
• When electrified instruments are used, be sure to lower the volume so not to overtake an acoustic instrument or vocal part.
• If you wish to have someone join you, that is okay, but do not join in unless asked.
• Join the circle if you plan to perform. It can be difficult to ensure everyone gets a turn when participants are not in their seat and ready to perform.
• Please be respectful of the Westman Jams equipment.