Stay Safe, Keep Jamming

A few simple tips for meeting other musicians safely.

One of the best things about music is the people you meet along the way. Whether you’re looking for a new bandmate, arranging your first jam session or getting together with a group of musicians, making new connections is what Up For A Jam is all about.

Most people are simply looking to make music, have some fun and meet others who share their interests. But whenever you’re meeting someone you’ve only spoken to online, it pays to use a little common sense.

Here are a few friendly tips to help make your first meetup a good one.

1. Have a Chat First

Before arranging to meet, spend a little time getting to know the person you’re talking to.

Ask about their musical interests, experience, favourite bands and what they’re hoping to achieve. A quick phone or video call can also be a good way to break the ice.

You’ll probably find out whether you’re both on the same musical wavelength before you’ve even plugged in an amplifier.

2. Meet Somewhere Sensible

For your first meeting, choose somewhere you’re comfortable with.

A local café, music venue, established rehearsal studio or organised jam session can be a great starting point.

It’s generally better to avoid meeting at someone’s home or inviting a stranger to yours until you’ve got to know them.

There’ll be plenty of time for rehearsals in somebody’s garage later!

3. Let Someone Know Your Plans

If you’re meeting a musician for the first time, tell a friend or family member where you’re going, who you’re meeting and roughly when you expect to be back.

It’s a simple precaution that takes very little effort.

And if your plans change, a quick message to keep them updated is always a good idea.

4. Make Your Own Travel Arrangements

When meeting someone new, it’s worth arranging your own transport.

Whether you’re driving, taking the bus or getting a lift from somebody you already know, having your own way home gives you flexibility.

Once you’ve got to know your new bandmates, sharing lifts to rehearsals and gigs might become second nature.

5. Keep Personal Information Personal

You don’t need to share your home address, personal phone number or other private details straight away.

Use the Up For A Jam messaging system to make initial contact and only share additional information when you feel comfortable.

Be particularly cautious if somebody asks for money, bank details or sensitive personal information.

Remember, you’re looking for somebody to play music with, not somebody to manage your bank account!

6. Trust Your Instincts

If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it.

Perhaps somebody is being unusually pushy, their story keeps changing or they’re insisting on meeting somewhere you’re not comfortable with.

It’s perfectly fine to suggest an alternative, postpone the meeting or decide not to go ahead.

You don’t owe anybody an audition, rehearsal or explanation for putting your own safety first.

7. Be Clear About Expectations

A little communication can prevent misunderstandings.

Before meeting, agree on the basics. What sort of music will you play? Is it a casual jam or a serious band audition? How long will the session last? Are there any rehearsal room costs?

Being upfront helps everybody know what to expect.

It also means you can concentrate on the important stuff, like deciding who’s going to count in the first song.

8. Look After Your Gear

Musical equipment can be expensive, so take sensible precautions when travelling to rehearsals or meeting new people.

Keep an eye on your instruments, amplifiers and other belongings, particularly in unfamiliar venues.

If you’re lending or borrowing equipment, make sure everybody understands the arrangement.

And don’t feel pressured into leaving valuable gear with somebody you’ve only just met.

9. Keep a Clear Head

If your first meetup happens in a pub or music venue, enjoy yourself, but keep your wits about you.

It’s always sensible to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly when meeting new people.

Save the celebrations for when you’ve nailed that tricky guitar solo!

10. Be Respectful and Enjoy Yourself

Good musical relationships start with mutual respect.

Be friendly, arrive when you say you will, respect people’s boundaries and remember that everyone has different levels of experience and confidence.

If you don’t click musically, that’s absolutely fine. Not every jam session leads to a new band, and there’s no reason you can’t part on good terms.

Sometimes you find your next bandmate. Sometimes you just have an enjoyable afternoon playing music.

Both are worthwhile.

Something Not Quite Right?

We want Up For A Jam to be a welcoming and enjoyable place for musicians of all ages and abilities.

If you encounter a suspicious advert, inappropriate messages or behaviour that concerns you, please let us know.

Email: hello@upforajam.com

We can review reports relating to activity on Up For A Jam and take appropriate action where necessary.

If you feel threatened or are in immediate danger, contact the police. In the UK, call 999 in an emergency.

Now, Go Make Some Music!

Meeting new musicians should be something to look forward to, not something to worry about.

A little preparation, some common sense and a friendly conversation can go a long way towards making your first jam a great experience.

So find some local musicians, arrange a rehearsal, turn up with your instrument and see where the music takes you.

Find people. Start a band. Play some gigs.

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