jam session etiquette...

[Dippledorp]

Im going to the Jamey Aebersold jazz camp in a few days and I really want to take part in some jams. Unfortunately I dont know many tunes by heart, although I do play over many standards with my combo. My question is is it bad etiquette (sp?) to take my real book along and read songs out of them? I'd know the songs, I just dont know the changes by heart.....
Thanks!

[Johan]

Sorry for not replying to your question, but I was very interested to hear that Aebersold has a camp... could you please inform me more about this?

Best regards
Johan Riedenlow

[UMBari]

Dippledorp:

Generally, it is not good etiquette to bring your Real Book on stage. However, I have never attended an Aebersold Camp...I would imagine that at such an educational institution might be flexible and may be cool with you reading the changes.
I have been to many jam sessions in Philadelphia and New York City, where Real Books are a no-no. My advice to you is to learn 2 or 3 tunes that you already may be comfortable with...perhaps something easily learned like a blues (Freddie Freeloader, All Blues, etc.). When it is your turn to go up and play, call your tunes...don't get roped into playing anything that you are not comfortable with. In my opinion, a jam session serves as an opportunity for you to put your best foot forward in a live situation. Make sure you are comfortable with what you are playing so that thd session can be a positive learning experience for you.

I hope you enjoy your time at the Aebersold Camp,

Vee Popat