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David Horovitz
Mar-07-2005, 2:09pm
I know this isn't a new subject but I wanted to vent a little frustration and perhaps solicit some advice.

In a jam yesterday I kept finding myself getting all tripped up, struggling to play through fiddle tunes I know well and getting very little volume from my mando. A couple of players were more accomplished and the tempo was at times a little faster than I'd like. I know the issue is death grip, with both my fretting and picking hands. I think the source of it is some performance anxiety. But try as I might, I couldn't relax and just play like I know I can.

The frustrating part is that I practice a lot of drills and tunes using a metronome, starting slowing and gradually increasing the tempo to 'normal' playing speed, careful that both hands are still loose and my tone and volume are still good. Of course, this is in the comfort of my own home. But I still do okay playing with one or two others I know. But whenever I'm in a larger jam situation, the death grip sets in like quick dry cement. Maybe I need to drink a few beers before jamming #http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

Anyone else struggle with this or recall how you overcame it?

duuuude
Mar-07-2005, 2:13pm
What helps me is remembering that volume doesn't come from the fretting hand. Relax, enjoy the moment, and quit watching your fretting hand.
http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

250sc
Mar-07-2005, 3:27pm
I think Duuude is right. The fact that it is a "larger jam" makes you try to play louder than you normally do and you tense up. Try again with 2 or 3 people who know about playing with dynamics and you'll be happier.

I don't even try playing in large jams. I find them really un-satisfying but I do note the good players and try to hook up with them at another time.

Kirby161
Mar-08-2005, 12:19am
actually im a true believer in beer. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mandosmiley.gif

John Ritchhart
Mar-08-2005, 2:45am
Be careful about the death grip on the beer can. They don't make them like they used to.

John Flynn
Mar-08-2005, 8:52am
Suggestions:

> Do the stretches on musicianshealth.com and warm up on some simple tunes before the jam. I find it easier to relax the death grip if I am warmed up and streched out.

> Think about the fact that your only responsibility in a jam is not to mess everyone else up. You don't have to carry the tune, you don't even have to be heard. No one will care but you. No one is keeping score. So there is no need to "get down on it." Jams are a great opportunity to try things like seeing how light you can play.