ACTIVITY 4 - Jammin'       

Many people decide to study the violin or fiddle because they have a desire to play with other musicians.  How does one get to that point?

I suggest you do two things to begin:

1.  Attend a "jam" session.  You don't have to do anything but just sit back, listen, watch, and enjoy.  These activities are NOT venues for professional musicians to perform ... they are usually hosted by more proficient musicians and are intended to be a forum for all musicians to get together and learn from each other -- but mostly just to have fun.  You can find out about "jam sessions" in your area by checking in the local newspaper or musicians' guide, or on the internet.

2.  Pick a song you like and try to play along with it in the comfort of your own home.  Begin by just bowing open strings and see if you can match the rhythm with your bow (rhythm is generally the most important thing anyway).  Then experiment by putting fingers down while you play -- just one at a time.  Before you know it you will come up with your own part to play that is uniquely yours.  You might be surprised how good it sounds!