Local musicians are encouraging others to grab their gear and head down to the Langford Legion for the Friday Night Jam.
A staple on the Langford music scene, the jam brings together area solo musicians, bands and a few out of towners for a night of socializing, performing and combining talents to make some memorable music.
“We find it’s not only fun, but it’s also an opportunity to try stuff out,” said organizer Danny Copper, whose band, Guy Price and the Nostalgics, kicks off the night. “We also enjoy meeting with friends who come out here. There’s a group of people who are quite into having it and helping out and taking part.”
Everyone is welcome to play. The night not only offers polished musicians a chance to try new material and have fun, new musicians can get used to playing in front of a crowd.
“It’s a place to get your feet wet,” Copper said. “You see people coming out who have improved dramatically too. Their playing, and their confidence? You can see a change.”
The music typically leans towards classic rock and blues, with the occasional foray into country or jazz, but all styles are welcome. A standup comedian has even showed up to try some material.
“There’s a lot of talent around,” Cooper said. “We’ve had some amazing talent here. (It’s about) having fun with music and giving people freedom to express themselves.”
There is a drum kit available and all the necessary amps and monitors to be able to support a full band. Players typically form ad hoc bands, but there are also open mic spots slotted in for solo players and those playing more acoustic styles.
Bands are typically given 20 to 30 minutes to play, while solo acts may have a shorter set, Copper said. “You have the opportunity to play whatever you want. You can showcase your band.”
People also come out just to listen and Copper hopes more people take the opportunity to do so and hear some great local musicians at a local venue.
The jam runs every Friday night from 8 p.m. to midnight.
kwells@goldstreamgazette.com