What is a bluegrass jam?
A bluegrass jam is a meeting of bluegrass musicians to informally play unrehearsed bluegrass music for the sole purpose of having fun. This is not the place for established bands to perform as a unit.
What types of instruments are allowed?
Only stringed acoustic instruments from the bluegrass genre such as 5-string banjo, guitar, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, and upright bass are allowed. Percussion instruments are not allowed.
What types of tunes/songs are played?
Generally tunes (all instrumental) and songs (with vocals) chosen from the standard bluegrass repertoire go over the best since everybody is already familiar with them. You just can't go wrong with Bill Monroe. Soon to be classics from contemporary bluegrass bands will also be found. It is advised to not play overly complex or original material. Occasionally a well known song from outside the bluegrass realm, such as a folk, Beatles or other rock song will be played, but only if it is done in the bluegrass style.
Who picks the songs?
In some jams, the "jam leader" (usually the vocalist) will pick the songs. But the Fiddlers' Green Jam is a bit more democratic with everyone having the chance to "call out" a tune (instrumental) or a song (vocal).
What about harmony singing?
Are you kidding? Harmony is what bluegrass singing is all about. Harmony vocals are encouraged on the choruses of all the songs.
What if the jam circle becomes too big?
As more participants join in the jam circle, the volume level usually becomes too loud to remain enjoyable. This can be especially problematic for the soloists. It is advisable to simply break off and start a new circle when you feel that the main circle is too big. There are plenty of hallways, alcoves, and stairways to provide ample space for several jams to occur simultaneously. Please refer to the ETIQUETTE section concerning volume. Excessively loud strummers will usually ruin a good jam and keep the good pickers from returning.
Who is welcome?
All are welcome and anyone can participate or observe. If you are a newbie (or even a seasoned pro for that matter), it is encouraged that you read the JAM ETIQUETTE section before attending. But please remember, this is a bluegrass only jam.
What should I bring?
Obviously you should bring your acoustic stringed instrument (or instruments) of choice. But you should also bring a clip-on electronic tuner like the INTELLI IMT-500 or a Barcus-Berry Soul Mate, a strap because bluegrass jammers usually stand, a capo, and extra strings & picks. All of these items are available from Union Music located at 142 Southbridge St. in downtown Worcester right next door to the legendary Coney Island Hot Dogs.
Where is this jam held?
The jam is held at the Fiddler's Green Pub which is located at 19 Temple Street, in downtown Worcester, MA 01604. The Pub is part of the "Worcester Hibernian Cultural Centre" which is a beautiful 200 seat hall that proudly fosters Irish culture, history, music, and dance. The Centre and Pub are located in downtown Worcester only 2 minutes from Union Station (the building with the two huge matching white towers right next to I-290). For you Worcesterites, the Pub is just a literal stone's throw from the old Oilzum arched bridge.
Is there food and drink available?
Yes! The Fiddler's Green Pub has a full bar. The Pub normally has a "full" menu of both American and Irish food, but on jam Sundays the Pub offers an abbreviated "Pub Style" appetizer menu. The Pub's phone number is 508-792-3700. There is no charge to attend the jam, so please support the Pub by not bringing in your own food or drink.
What about parking?
The Pub has its own lot with plenty of free and well lit parking.