What to expect at an ETNBA Jam

Visit our Events page for a list of upcoming Jams.

We host "open jams". They are free and open to the public. All ages and skill levels are welcome.

Our jams are Bluegrass jams, meaning we play songs that are traditionally considered bluegrass tunes using traditional bluegrass instruments - Acoustic Guitar, Banjo, Mandolin, Fiddle, Dobro, & Upright Bass. Electric instruments are not permitted. We are strictly acoustic; no mics or PAs are used.

Musicians sit in a circle so everyone can see and hear each other.

We take turns going clock-wise around the circle choosing songs.

We encourage everyone to arrive with a few tunes in mind so you’ll be ready with a song choice when it’s your turn. At a typical 2-hour jam you can expect to call 2-3 songs. But if you don’t have a song in mind, it’s totally okay to pass.

We take our breaks in clock-wise order around the circle, everyone gets a chance to take a break.

No pressure to take a break on a song if you don’t know it, simply shake your head just before your turn and the person to your left will be up next.

Our jams are a judgement-free zone. You won’t be laughed at if you miss a few notes. We’ve all been there. You’ll only get better if you try!

Roll in my Sweet Baby's Arms G

New River Train C

Whiskey Before Breakfast D

Hold What You Got C

Dixie Hoedown G

Fireball Mail G

Salt Creek A

Old Joe Clark A

Old Home Place G or A

I Saw the Light G or D

Clinch Mountain Backstep A

Little Annie G

Angeline the Baker D

Blackberry Blossom G

Shackles and Chains E

Hot Corn, Cold Corn G

Mountain Dew G or A

Nine Pound Hammer A

Blue Ridge Cabin Home G or A

Long Journey Home G or A