BigAA
1 post
Apr 20, 2011
9:04 PM
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I have been playing harmonica and have been an avid observer of the MBH forum for about 5 months and enjoy the exchanges and the great amount of knowledge that is shared. This is my first post.
I use the pucker method but tend to fall into U-blocking when trying to hit clear single notes. I am working on tongue blocking and that is coming along slowly.
I recently got a VHT Special 6 to get comfortable playing with an amp since I am targeting to join my first jam in the next 4-5 weeks. I am working on a few songs but am comfortable just doing some rhythm playing to start.
Any advise for a first time jammer?
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nacoran
4036 posts
Apr 20, 2011
9:31 PM
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Welcome aboard!
Let's see... what type of jam is this? Jamming with a band, jamming in front of a crowd, jamming in a band in front of a crowd?...
Don't be afraid to lay out if you are with a band and you get lost. Feel the rhythm. Tap your foot. Make sure you know what song is coming so you have the right harp. Listen to what the other musicians are doing. Make eye contact with the crowd. Watch the band for changes. And most of all, have fun!
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Nate
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Zhin
630 posts
Apr 20, 2011
10:43 PM
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If I could sum it up as short as possible I would have to say:
- Don't think too much once you're at the jam or when you are playing. Don't put your mind in a planning or "studying" sort of state. Your function for the day is to just express yourself on harp based on what you have learned. Not what you have to learn or haven't learned yet.
- Just play what feels right to you by understanding you are there to make a connection with the band. Be a part of the vibe and music. Try to move your body with your harp and the music. It helps for keeping time and going with the feel.
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http://www.youtube.com/harmonicazhin
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didjcripey
72 posts
Apr 20, 2011
10:52 PM
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Leave plenty of space;
space for everyone else, as well as space in what you play.
Don't try to fill up and impress people
If you stuff up; don't worry about it. Hopefully your jamming partners will be as forgiving as mine!
And generally, don't play while the front man is singing, or someone else is doing a solo.
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Lucky Lester
Last Edited by on Apr 20, 2011 10:55 PM
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Ant138
900 posts
Apr 20, 2011
11:19 PM
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Welcome aboard BigAA, good to meet ya!!!
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http://www.youtube.com/user/fiendant?feature=mhum
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OzarkRich
441 posts
Apr 21, 2011
8:46 AM
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Welcome!
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Ozark Rich
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Barry C.
242 posts
Apr 22, 2011
9:29 AM
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advise for new jammer; don't over-play...pick your spots!
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~Banned in Boston!
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toddlgreene
2921 posts
Apr 22, 2011
9:34 AM
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Good advice thusfar, and a hearty welcome from New Orleans!
Learn fromthose who have gone before you and from those who are currently where you want to be on the instrument, and strive to find your OWN voice-it will come in time. Most importantly, have fun, and know that this forum is one of the best sources of info you will find anywhere.
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Todd
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BigAA
2 posts
Apr 22, 2011
4:27 PM
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Thanks to everyone for the suggestions. I plan to join a blues jam night at one of the local clubs. Crowds at the jams I have attended have been small enough that I don't think I'll be too nervous. The bands I have seen and spoken with know I am a beginner and they have said "no problem.".
My first few times out I expect I might not join in enough....But I'll have someone in the audience ready to signal me if......
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MJ
290 posts
Apr 22, 2011
4:58 PM
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When in doubt...lay out. Have fun!
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