Re: [Harp-L] begginner question about blues jams

[Tim Dougherty <timd@xxxxxxx>]

The only thing I would add to this is be sure to go armed with a full set 
of harps.  Guitar players, often the self-appointed leader of the 
improvised band, can call some pretty weird keys.  Oh, and they don't want 
to move a half step to give you a break - that would throw the cosmos out 
of alignment.  I am a guitar player and a harp player, so I can say these 
things with complete peace of mind.  "Those" guys frustrate me as much as 
they do the rest of you.  Of course, we've flamed the SRV wannabes here 
many times, so let's not go there.  Volume?  Oh-I said I wouldn't go 
there.  But bring a big amp and some ear plugs if you want to be heard.

As far as tunes are concerned, again, you'll have to think guitar slinger 
here.  Little Walter...who?

Get aquainted with the basic blues formula, then expand on 
that.  Understand what a player means when he calls a medium shuffle, 
rhumba, etc.  By osmosis, you'll start to understand phrases like "we'll 
back it in from the 5", a 2-5-1 in G, or the infamous  "Stormy Monday" 
progression.

Remember, you're not up there to play 100% of the time, only when you get 
"the nod" from whoever is singing.  Listening is of extreme 
importance.  Get a feel for what the bass & drums are doing.  Ignore the 
guitar player, they can't hear anything but themselves anyway (doh-there I 
go again).

Lastly, don't forget to breath.  Stop playing for a bar or two and let the 
audience whoop and holler 'till you come back in.

Finally, just et up there and do your best.  You can't learn until you 
do.  Don't be embarrased, or worry that you're not "good enough".  Play the 
notes you know and avoid the stuff you don't until you've woodshedded it to 
perfection.

Happy jamming!

Tim
www.HarpMicGaskets.com