Bluegrass Jams

Informal jamming is an essential part of the bluegrass scene. If you’ve got a guitar or other acoustic instrument at home and are looking for a chance to do some bluegrass jamming, here’s a rundown of some of the opportunities. There’s something for all levels, from beginner to pro, and from old to young:

With the Nonprofit San Diego Bluegrass Society:

SDBS 2nd Monday instructed slow jam with Mary Jane Cupp. Photo: David Cupp.

• Every 2^nd Monday evening at Duck Foot Brewery Miramar from 6:30-8 pm. Open mic and pick up bands.
• Every 3^rd Monday evening, an instructed slow jam where you can learn to play bluegrass music.
• Every 4^th Sunday afternoon at Duck Foot Brewery Miramar there is an open jam.
• Every Friday at noon, Emma’s Gut Bucket Band holds a jam session at the Mission Bay RV Resort clubhouse.

Find the details on all the SDBS programs on its website http://sandiegobluegrass.org/events.html

With the Nonprofit North San Diego County Bluegrass and Folk Club

• Every first Tuesday of the month, outdoor jamming and featured band inside at the Round Table Pizza, corner of Washington and Ash in Escondido
• Bluegrass Campout at Portrero County Campground
• Every 3rd Wednesday, jam session at Round Table Pizza, Escondido
• Every 3rd Monday, jam session at Duck Foot Brewery, Encinitas
• Every 4th Wednesday, jam session at All Things Music, Valley Center

Find the details on the North County Bluegrass and Folk Club website here: https://northcountybluegrass.org/

With the Thursday Night Pickers in Encinitas.

Thursday night pickers

• Join an instructed jam session every Thursday from 6-8:30pm at the Round Table Pizzain Encinitas.

Find the details here on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/442928989071481/

Why is jamming an important part of the bluegrass music scene? There are many reasons:

• It’s fun!
• It’s a chance to meet new musical friends
• Its affordable
• It’s a great way to learn and improve
• It’s a great way to discover new music
• If you have never been to a bluegrass jam session, give it a try. If you are shy or concerned you are not good enough, or otherwise a bit intimidated, not to worry! You will be welcomed—that too is a part of the “bluegrass way.” You can always do what I did as a beginner. Stand on the outside of a jam circle and listen. See if you can hear the chord changes. When ready, you can step in and start by just playing rhythm. When it comes your turn to solo, simply shake your head “I’m passing” until you feel comfortable to take a solo.In a future column we’ll go over the etiquette and details of effective participation in a bluegrass jam session.