Community Bluegrass Jam Session (All Ages) May 11, 2024

***This event requires NO registration! However, you can enter your information if you would like us to know you’re coming. ***

An essential skill of bluegrass music is the ability to take part in informal playing situations, also known as a “jam session.” Participants arrange themselves in a circle, choose a song from a common repertoire, sing, accompany each other, and play solos. Often, they do this despite no previous rehearsal, even with complete strangers! The unplugged, grassroots nature of this music lends itself to low-key playing situations that are fun and satisfying.

Bluegrass Jam Sessions happen on the 2nd Saturday of each month unless otherwise noted.

The Introductory Level runs from 10-11:30 a.m. with 15 minutes of packup/setup time followed by the Intermediate Level from 11:45-1 p.m. 

Introductory Level is open to anyone with basic music skills and an interest in playing bluegrass and folk music in a group setting. We play at easy-going tempos, and the emphasis is on having fun and developing your skills as a singer, accompanist, and soloist. The “soloist” part is not required; you are welcome to just strum along.  Host Randy Gildersleeve will draw up list of songs the Monday before the jam session and send it out in a group email. 

Intermediate Level is for those who wish to “kick things up a notch”; faster tempos, more emphasis on bluegrass instrumentals, aka “fiddle tunes,” plus bluegrass vocal songs, and perhaps swing and blues tunes. Strong soloist skills are not required; if you are a singer/strummer who wants to pick up the pace, join us. As with the introductory group, Randy will make a songlist and send it out the Monday before.

Not sure where you belong? Randy suggests joining the introductory jam, and he can answer any questions during the 15-minute break. Avid jammers are welcome to stay for both sessions, and anyone interested in listening and tapping your toes is welcome too.

Instruments that are ideal for this include, but are not limited to acoustic guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, bass, ukulele, harmonica, and singing.

Join the band, or just come listen!

Please bring water/snacks, as there are no food facilities at the school. 

Cost Details
A freewill donation of $10 per person, $20 per family is encouraged to help cover expenses but no one will be turned away. No matter what your experience, all are welcome!

Location Details
Marine Mills Folk School
550 Pine St., Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047

Age Requirements
Anyone under the age of 18 is welcome to attend MMFS community events (Knit Night, Dare to Repair, Bluegrass Jam Session, Beginner’s Bridge, etc.), with the exception of Open Carving, which is for those ages 18 years or older. Attendees ages 16 and 17 are welcome to attend without a parent or guardian when prior written consent from a guardian is provided to MMFS at info@marinemillsfolkschool.org. Attendees under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.