what tunes to learn

[sambec]

Hi guys i,ve made the mistake i think of learning a lot of theory but not putting it in to practice [there's a lot to learn on this site] so i want to know what tunes i should learn so i could join some informal jam session
and at least have an idea whats going to be played.Thanks for your help.

[Blue(s) Skies]

What kind of jam session? Like a jazz combo jam?
Are there any saxophones, trumpets, etc.?
If so I would first learn the jazz chords.
If you're looking for jazz standards, I think the other guys in here
can give you more detailed stuff, but I'd buy the real book.
If you're going to play lead guitar or you're going to play a couple of solos,
then practice your improvisation.

Hope I could help you,

Blue(s) Skies

[randalljazz]

http://www.jazzguitar.be/forum/getti...d-learn-2.html

[davil]

I'd start with a few blues tunes - a jazz blues and a minor blues maybe, get familiar with a rhythm changes like Oleo, and like blue(s) skies said get hold of a real book and check out some of the more common standards.
Don't feel overwhelmed just go through songs that interest you, take your time and have fun

[whippersnapper]

Do a search we have this Q a LOT on here!

[Passion4Blue]

I would start with three or four tunes like "All the things you Are" and "Rhythm Changes". These seem to be two well recommended tunes to get those ii-V changes in order. MAybe then a couple of Jazz-Blues Tunes (one major, one minor) and then something along the lines of "Autumn Leaves" and "Girl from Ipanema" (bossa nova to change it up)

[Modalguru]

Don't learn anything you cannot apply, that leads to frustration only.

You want to play at a local jazz session? No problem, just go there and talk to the guy who's running the show. Many sessions have a session-book with standards they play regularly. Ask for a copy (small charge) or note the keys of the song.
Choose two easy songs of the list (eg Mack The Knife, Autumn Leaves, Jeepers Creepers). Listen to many recordings of the songs, learn their chord voicings and arps all over the neck, choose some scales that fit. Learn one or two solos from the recordings (transcribe yourself or search for transcriptions in the internet, lots of material for free there). Make your own playback with the guitar for soloing over it (with swing tunes use a metronome with the clicks on 2 and 4), return to the session and play.
Have fun!

Cheers, Modalguru

[Susan Palmer]

Go to a session and write down the names of the tunes they play, then learn those tunes. Introduce to other players and ask for their suggestions.

Sometimes it's a good idea to bring a list of tunes you know and see if other musicians there know those tunes. (I always hate standing there asking, "What do you want to play," and hearing back, "I don't know, what do you want to play?")

[mazeltov39]

Hi try www.realbooks.us, they have lists ,with basic backing tracks that you can play along with and change key if neccesary also you can slow tempo down ,you will need to register to log on,Cheers ,Mazeltov39 Manchester UK

[macksquared]

Satin Doll, All the Things You Are, Misty, Meditation, There Will Never Be Another You, My Romance, and Don't Get Around Much Anymore. Know those cold and you can hold your own at any jam.