Takoma Park Music Jam Meetup Group

Wednesdays April 22, May 6, May 20, May 27, June 3, + June 10th. 7-8:30pm.

In this ensemble we’ll have fun learning and playing songs selected from the early, middle and late periods of the Beatles catalog. I’ll provide the materials we need to render them accurately and in their full complexity, while also tailoring them to meet the needs and abilities of our ensemble. Although we won’t always be able to recreate the exact instrumentation on the records, we will strive to inhabit and enjoy the essence of the songs— the rhythmic feel, edge, humor, whimsy and joy. All instruments and skill levels welcome— A flexible, kind and playful attitude required.

All instruments and skill levels are welcome, though you should have basic proficiency on your instrument to get the most out of the class.

12:00 - 1:30 PM EST Followed by slow session from 1:45 - 2:45 pm

Ever wanted to learn a Celtic tune? This is your chance! Celtic cellist Ellen Gira leads a monthly intro to Celtic repertoire class where students learn a groovy Celtic tune and create a fun arrangement as a group. This class will also offer ideas to take your playing further, including ornamentation and Celtic jamming skills. All instruments are welcome. Cost is $30.

Afterwards, Ellen hosts a Free Celtic Slow Session that is open to players of all levels and all instruments. These classes and sessions will help prepare you to join the DMV’s thriving Celtic music community and play in sessions anywhere in the world!

Every Second Sunday of the Month from 1-2 pm EST

This is a chance for young pickers to play the tunes and songs they love together with other kids! Students will learn how to collaborate, communicate, create and play well with others in a bluegrass jam session. Mari Carlson facilitates a fun and supportive environment that encourages flexibility, experimentation, and listening. This is an open ended jamming situation that may explore different acoustic genres including folk, old-time, blues and more.

Parents and older siblings with accompanying instruments are welcome to sit in and support the jam.

This is a monthly class designed for guitar players of all levels to fine tune their technique while learning essential skills and concepts. Each class will cover different guitar skills on an accessible level, creating a good foundation for further exploration and practice.

Topics will include:
Right hand technique for strumming and picking
Right hand technique for fingerpicking
Essential open position scales
Chord inversions
Improvisation strategies
The CAGED System
Jazz Chords
and More!

Each class will start with some basic warmup exercises and move into specifics with a focus on healthy technique, practicing strategies, and producing the best possible sound. This is a live, in-person lesson where students will have opportunities to ask questions and receive feedback. PDFs will be provided.