Tunes for Old-Time Jams — The Chestnuts
$175
Description
TERM 6, 2026
INSTRUCTOR: Andy Howard (bio)
DAY/TIME: Wed – 6pm, In-person
INSTRUMENT: Stringed Instruments, Intermediate
Do you want to play old-time music and attend jam sessions with other musicians? This class is designed to build a foundation of the tunes most commonly played almost anywhere you go – the “chestnuts.” These tunes, known by most seasoned jammers, will prepare you to join in many jams, even in other regions!
In addition to building your tune list and knowledge, we will cover jam culture and etiquette — how to find jams, and where to look for tune resources. We practice listening for chord changes and learning melodies by ear.
The class is designed for a variety of string instruments at an intermediate level. Strummers should be comfortable with chords in Keys of D, G, and A.
Tunes are taught by ear. Chords are initially provided for strummers, but we coach you towards playing by ear and eventually playing without reading charts or music.
This class meets in person.