Letterkenny Launches Monthly Jam for Average Musicians

A new music initiative called AMP (Average Musicians Playing) is set to launch in Letterkenny, inviting local musicians to participate in laid-back jam sessions. Unlike traditional music events that often emphasize skill, AMP encourages those who love to play but feel their abilities do not match professional standards to join in. The first session will take place on the first Monday of the month at 7:00 PM, with the venue to be confirmed.

Participants are encouraged to bring their instruments and a fee of €10 to cover the room hire. The atmosphere is designed to be friendly and non-competitive, welcoming musicians aged 21 and over. “Tired of rocking out alone in your bedroom? Think you’re too average for a band but too good to quit? AMP is for you,” the organizers stated. This initiative aims to create a community space for musicians who enjoy playing together without the pressure of performance.

Who Can Join AMP?

AMP focuses on creating an inclusive environment for musicians who can follow tabs or chord sheets and maintain time. The sessions are not intended for complete beginners or professional virtuosos. Instruments accepted include electric or acoustic guitars, bass, keyboards, cajón, vocals, and various small percussion instruments. Musicians are encouraged to bring their own leads, tuners, stands, and spare strings or sticks to ensure a smooth experience.

The repertoire for the jam will consist of easy, enjoyable music with solid grooves. Expect to play rock, indie, pop, folk, country, blues, and traditional crossovers. The aim is to keep the songs accessible, featuring 3 to 5 chord classics, Irish sing-alongs, 90s hits, and crowd-pleasing tunes. The sessions will not focus on complex solos or technical showcases, making it a relaxed atmosphere for all participants.

How the Jam Nights Will Operate

Each jam night will start with a quick introduction to set the volume and pick a song from a shared list. Participants will play through one verse and chorus to lock in the feel before performing the full song. While short solos are welcome, the emphasis will be on maintaining a collaborative spirit. The organizers will provide charts and tabs for common songs to assist musicians throughout the evening.

For those interested in joining, registration is available online. Questions can be directed to the event organizers at [email protected]. This relaxed jam session presents a unique opportunity for musicians in Letterkenny to connect, collaborate, and enjoy making music together.