Wondering what a jazz jam session is? Read this article to find out all about this musical experience that's equally beneficial for participants and audience alike.
A jazz improvisation session
To understand what a jam session is, we first need to look at the origin of this expression. As you probably know, both words come from the English language. In French, “jam session” means “improvisation session”.
Originally, this meeting was organized around jazz, but today it can involve other styles of music. In any case, several musicians can take part in a jam session.
In French, this is known as a “bœuf”. The name comes from the Parisian restaurant “Le bœuf sur le toit”. Located in the capital's eighth arrondissement, it got the whole of Paris up and dancing with its impromptu concerts. At the beginning of the 20th century, this establishment hosted numerous jazz jam sessions organized by the musicians of a group called “Groupe des six”.
A musical experience prized by amateur musicians
Before attending or participating in a jazz jam session, it's hard to imagine an evening of improvised jazz. But it's not just for professionals. As an amateur musician, you can take part in a jam session.
This is not always the case, but sometimes instruments are provided by the organizer. What's special about these improvised musical gatherings is that not all the participants necessarily know each other. In this case, it's best to talk things over before going on stage. Musicians can discuss which songs they know and would like to play.
Rest assured, a jam session isn't all about improvisation. When musicians play jazz standards, for example, the pieces are known to everyone, and any solos are defined in advance. During these passages, everyone is free to improvise and add their own personal touch to the piece.
Valuable opportunities for amateur musicians
In recent years, jazz jam sessions have become increasingly popular. It's true that these improvisation sessions represent invaluable opportunities for amateur musicians. Thanks to the organizers, they can finally find places to perform. What a chance to play in a group, in front of an audience.
But jam sessions aren't just for amateurs. Some of the biggest names in jazz have taken the plunge to get out of their comfort zone, meet other musicians and perform in front of a new audience.
Recently, at the 38 Riv jazz club in Paris, saxophonist Tivon Pennicott and drummer Kenny Garrett shared the stage with amateur musicians, much to the delight of the audience.
Great discoveries for the audience
The jam sessions are also very interesting for the audience. Not only do they attend free concerts, but they also discover new talents and new tunes.
What's more, these discoveries are often breathtaking. Many amateur musicians come from conservatories and are extremely talented. When they come together around music, the magic happens, and the audience is always won over.
And that's precisely what makes jam sessions so charming: the meeting of professional and amateur musicians who share the same passion for music.
An experience that helps develop creativity
Improvising in music requires creativity and inspiration. Taking part in a jam session encourages musicians to step out of their comfort zone. There's no better exercise for developing creativity and inspiration. If practiced regularly, these improvisation sessions push musicians to innovate, whether they're composing or writing.
A good way to learn to play in a band
All musicians who play in a band aim for perfect chemistry. This can only be achieved through regular practice. But taking part in improvisation sessions is a great help. Each musician learns to listen to the others, to help them and to accompany them to achieve a harmonious result.
The perfect networking activity
Jam sessions, whatever the musical style, have given rise to numerous music groups. Some meetings between musicians are particularly productive.
For musicians, jam sessions are an opportunity to exchange ideas, get advice and gain a fresh perspective on the music they're composing. But these improvisation sessions are also beneficial in terms of networking.
The establishments that host them are often frequented by labels, artistic directors or even casting directors. A jam session therefore represents a real chance to showcase one's talents for an amateur musician who would like to break into the music world.
An effective exercise in dealing with stage fright
Amateur musicians who have difficulty dealing with stage fright are well advised to take part in jazz jam sessions. During these improvisation sessions, they take risks, push their limits and try to get along with musicians they don't know. There's no better exercise in stress management.
Where do jazz jam sessions take place?
To attend a jazz jam session, you don't need to go to a large concert hall. Most of these events take place in atmospheric bars or night clubs. These unique concerts require a venue on a human scale to immerse you in a warm, intimate atmosphere. These are the ideal conditions for enjoying the talents of passionate musicians.