Select Familiar Tunes

It may seem like common sense, but it's surprising how often this guideline is overlooked. A quick informal poll usually suffices; for instance, asking, "Who knows 'Jailhouse Blues?'" If less than half the group raises their hand, it's time to consider an alternative.

Steer Clear of Jam-Busters: We all recognize jam-busters — those songs that stray far from the bluegrass genre, are virtually unknown to the group, feature an abundance of complex chords, or introduce unheard-of chord progressions.

Typically, those proposing these songs are well aware of what they're doing. They select such songs to impress the group rather than choosing something enjoyable for everyone to play, which isn't the right motivation for a jam session. In advanced-level sessions, it's acceptable to introduce some challenges, but remember that jamming, at all levels, isn't intended as a platform for showcasing individual skills.