FAQ for the Jam
When does it happen?
Every other Tuesday, from 7:30pm to 9:45pm. Check out our Calendar for the date of the next show.
Where does it happen?
Sao Paulo’s Restaurante, by the University of Texas campus, between Crown & Anchor and Posse East.
What’s the vibe?
Relaxed and accepting
Do I have to be 18+ to participate?
No!
Is there a cover fee?
No! The band plays without pay, so you’re welcome to tip us, but even more importantly, please consider grabbing a drink, dessert, or even dinner while you hang out with us. This is a big part of what will make this jam work for the long-term. All that said, you are also welcome to come and do nothing more than listen and play with us.
Who do I contact for more info?
You can give David Chao a ring at 512.731.1153 if you’re lost or worried about whether you’re welcome to play with us (short answer – you are!). Or shoot a note to jam@centraltime.org.
Who’s playing?
University of Texas and Huston-Tillotson students, people who play music for a living, people who play once in a blue moon (and never for pay), high school students, and anyone who walks off the street and has a jazz tune they’d like to play.
When/how much will I get to be on stage?
If no one else is there – immediately! We don’t reserve time for the “house band” to do a set. This is also a very early jam session – it’s over before 10pm, so show up early to get on early. We’re happy for guests to be playing all night long – we just want to make sure that everyone gets a chance. We typically take a break at 8:30pm for 20-30 minutes, but if there are guest rhythm section members that can take over, we can skip the break.
Who’s listening?
The entire restaurant! Though the seats in front of the bar and in front of the band are the best place to catch the action.
Who’s the house band?
Me (David Chao), Simon Wiskowski (alto sax), Drew D’Entremont (drums), and Sam Pankey (upright bass).
Do singers show up?
Yes – and they are very welcome!
What kind of music do you play?
Jazz! In particular – any of: standards, post-bop, Latin, fusion, original tunes, straight-ahead, crazy-man music, etc. The only requirement – if you’re wanting us to play something we don’t have music for, bring a copy for horns (Bb and Eb), piano, and bass. Plus drums if it’s a tricky form.
What gear/music do I need to bring?
If you’re a drummer, nothing. If you’re an upright bass player, nothing. If you’re a keyboardist, nothing In all three of these cases, you’re welcome to use the house instruments. Assuming I’m there, the house piano is a Nord Stage EX 88.
Guitarist or electric bass – your instrument – and you’re welcome to plug into my Traynor K4 keyboard amp.
Singers: we have a mic and mic stand, but bring your own mic if you’re particular about that sort of thing.
Everyone else – we likely can rig up some kind of miking – just come on out with your instrument!
Music – nothing, unless the music you want to play is unlikely to be in one of the Hal Leonard Real Books (vols 1-3). If I’m there, I’ll have all these volumes there. Worse case – you’ll flip through tune titles till you and the band figure out what will work.
If I call a tune, do I have to have it memorized?
No – but … in our jam, we will not yell at you if you request a tune you don’t have memorized, but if you can memorize it, you’ll enjoy yourself much more (and sound much better!). We do have music; you’re welcome to bring your own real book to refer to in case you’re worried about forgetting chords or notes.
What is the minimum level of proficiency required to play?
This is totally up to you. If you just want to play the head on the way in and the outro, we’re happy for you to hang with us. If you’re struggling on one tune and want to play another, we’ll work with you to find an easier tune (say a blues) that will be less stressful for you.
Is sheet music allowed and/or welcome?
Certainly allowed – and in the case of obscure tunes or “interesting” keys, definitely welcome. Just keep in mind the house band and make sure you’ve got copies for them as well.