From the Gnome... Lessons from Book Clubs

Lately I've been thinking about what we can learn from the book club. A group of people who like to read get together on a regular basis to discuss a book that all of them have read. Then, they collectively offer suggestions for the next book to read. Not everyone will like every book, but most everyone will put some effort into reading each book so that when they do meet, the discussion can be had. Most of the book clubs I've heard about (I've never joined one - just to be clear) include some sort of beverage component - always an enticement for me to participate - coffee and tea maybe, but a social alcoholic bevvy is more likely to do the trick.

So book clubs are a small groups of like-minded people who found something in common and through scheduled meetings, help each other to do more of it - and to get more out of it. They read, discuss, and grow.

Well, if it works for books - it can easily work for musicians. Small groups of players can start a club. Not a band per se - which requires more commitment - but a group that gets together, say, once a month, and plays 1, 2, 3, or however many songs together JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT. And then they break down and discuss what the next 1, 2, 3 or however many songs will be. Everyone leaves exhilarated from the jam and with a deadline for learning some new songs. There's no audience except for themselves. It's just a jam. If one or two people can't make it - it still happens. It's loose, relaxed, fun, and yet, it keeps you challenged and involved. Busy people making excuses and creating opportunities to GET OUT THERE! and play. What could be better?

Who knew there was so much to learn from your everyday book club?

If you like this idea, then do something about it. Start a JAM Club!

Can you make up a better group of words to fit the acronym? I came up with the Just Appreciate Music Club. Send your ideas to me.

Tell The Metro Gnome about your JAM Club - we would love to share your story with the rest of our readers. Don't forget pictures!

Now... GET OUT THERE!

~The Gnome

The Metro Gnome is a supporter of and collaborator with the Music.Play for Life campaign. For more information about the campaign check out the website at http://www.mca.org.au/music.playforlife.htm