What we’re about
This group is for people who like to play instruments and or sing for fun. All skill levels welcome. I am generally thinking of this as neighborhood group for the Berkeley/Oakland area. I live at Telegraph and Alcatraz and I will host the first 2 jams just to get things started, then if anyone else in the area would like to host that would be great.
The songs will come from 3 sources:
1. Rise Up Singing. This is a classic sing along book with 1200 pop and folk tunes – lyrics and chords. I have 5 copies, if you have a copy bring it along.
2. Digital tablets and laptops. In addition to your own personal table, we will often project Chords and Lyrics onto a large screen TV. There is a growing library we are developing that is accessible via dropbox. A special IPAD app called OnSong makes these look even better, allows transposition, editing refine chords, etc. This works best if the songs are in .txt format..., with either the chords above the lyrics or in front of them in brackets, e.g. [G7] (A format called Chordpro)
In addition to this library, pretty much any song and chords can be found on the internet.
3. Xerox sheets. This is actually one of the best and easiest ways for everyone to play. If you have a song you want to play be sure to bring at least 10 copies so every one can see.
The Format: We go around the circle and each person either chooses a song or passes. This way the songs will be decided by whoever is there at a Jam. We also try to allow for spontaneity and extended jams, solos, according to the mood of the group.
Instruments: Pretty much any instruments are welcome. Just singing with no instrument is great too. Electric instruments are OK as long as you have a small practice amp and don’t mind keeping the volume down to harmonize with the group.
Other things: I don’t have any music stands and am just planning to use the table as you see in the picture. If you have table or standing music stands, that might be helpful, and necessary if you stand to play.
