Jam Sessions for the Harp Player
The Jam Scene for harmonica players is tough. We’re not taken as seriously as most musicians, people often down know how to play the right dynamics around us, and in addition we have to follow the basic customs of jamming. There are some ways, however, to make sure you don’t make an idiot of yourself in the Jam Scene and to actually have a really fun time. Here are some tips.
The first and probably most important tip is don’t play to loud. I know we want to play as loud as Muddy’s harp player used to on his albums but that’s just not as acceptable. Instead, blend in with the bass and drums in the rhythm section. Provide more chords, and arpeggiations instead of trying to place licks together and play leads. However, when you take a solo don’t be scared.
Often a mistake harp players make when they finally get a solo they freeze up and think “Oh shoot! How can I beat that guitar player?” Don’t be competitive or intimidated. That being said, also don’t be insecure. Don’t be afraid to show that you can seriously play and you’re not messing around. Speed, finding catchy licks, and changing positions with each chord is really impressive to these people. When they think harmonica, they’re thinking of that folk guy in the beginning of the show with an acoustic and a rack.
The Jam Scene for harmonica players is tough. We’re not taken as seriously as most musicians, people often down know how to play the right dynamics around us, and in addition we have to follow the basic customs of jamming. There are some ways, however, to make sure you don’t make an idiot of yourself in the Jam Scene and to actually have a really fun time. Here are some tips.
The first and probably most important tip is don’t play to loud. I know we want to play as loud as Muddy’s harp player used to on his albums but that’s just not as acceptable. Instead, blend in with the bass and drums in the rhythm section. Provide more chords, and arpeggiations instead of trying to place licks together and play leads. However, when you take a solo don’t be scared.
Often a mistake harp players make when they finally get a solo they freeze up and think “Oh shoot! How can I beat that guitar player?” Don’t be competitive or intimidated. That being said, also don’t be insecure. Don’t be afraid to show that you can seriously play and you’re not messing around. Speed, finding catchy licks, and changing positions with each chord is really impressive to these people. When they think harmonica, they’re thinking of that folk guy in the beginning of the show with an acoustic and a rack.
Give it a rest once
in a while. I know its fun to play on a lot of tunes but this is a rule for all
musicians in the jam scene. Make them want you give it a rest every now and
then unless you absolutely love the tune that’s coming up next. Take a break
from a few songs and then come back later. If this is the kind of Jam Session
where people take turns as a oppose to “whoever wants to play can come on up”
people may call you up for tracks later. Say no when they do but if they ask
again say yes. Make them want you.
Talk to other
harmonica players. It’s good to talk to a lot of other people but speaking with
harmonica players, you may learn a bit. It’s pretty interesting look at each
other’s harps, talk about harp players only we know and discuss new techniques.
The players around you can teach you a lot.
