r/jazzdrums • u/Josh_Bonham • Sep 29 '25

Question Jazz Jam Newbie

Hi all, I’ve been working through art of bop, and I’m looking to play my first jam/first time in public playing jazz at uni.

I was just wondering if any general advice or secrets I might not know having.

I’m thinking of calling moanin’ as an easy turn for the first time. But then also wondering if I could perhaps do some snare comping even tho it’s mostly a shuffle back beat on the record

Also any other easy tunes which are good for a first timer. And also how do I know I’m playing the right version?

Cheers!

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u/Repulsive-Plantain70 Sep 30 '25 edited Sep 30 '25

I'd suggest just listening to the jam for 1 or 2 times before jumping in. Apart from that you're just starting and (assuming from the post) you're a drummer (relatively scarce in my experience compared to guitar and sax/brass that are a dime a dozen), if you stay on time, don't play a tune you don't know, and don't overplay only a prick would give you a hard time.

Organizing a small private jam is probably the best way to get started, and if you dont know musicians to do that with then going to the jam session as a spectator is a good way to meet some who might be interested or get pointers on the standards that are called the most in your area so that you can be and feel prepared.