Youth Jam Sessions is a new project that aims to bring youth (ages 12-19) together in a welcoming space to explore community building through gathering, creating, and collaborating with music. You’re invited to join these monthly sessions at the Fernwood Community Centre to hang out, meet new people, jam with other musicians, and learn valuable skills to do with the local music scene and industry.
You can expect a fun, jam-packed environment with food, drinks, and access to other goodies, and music resources. Guest musicians will join Kady each session to share their knowledge and skills with everyone.
Through the connections and collaborations built during these sessions, we are aiming to form a jam band that will get the opportunity to perform at next year’s FernFest.
Where? Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Avenue, in the upstairs space at the multi-purpose room
When? Last Wednesday of every month, 6:30 – 9pm (subject to change)
What to bring? Yourself and your passion, an instrument if you are able to but we will have some on hand
Who? These sessions are for youth ages 12 to 19. Everyone is welcome—music experience is helpful but not necessary. Bring a willingness to support those less confident than yourself if you do have experience.
How do I sign up? These sessions are drop-in. We recognize that sometimes even registration can be a barrier for some folks but if you want to email any questions or let us know what your instrument will be ahead of time, that is always welcome. You can either DM @kadysavard on Instagram or email KadySavardCreative@gmail.com with any questions or to let us know you will be coming to a session. It does help to know ahead how many players we have for each instrument but not totally necessary.
How will it work? The key is collaborative learning, to improvise off of each other, and leave space for each other to create. Passing the mic is encouraged. Depending on how many people show up for each instrument, we may rotate in and out after a certain number of songs to keep things flowing and give everyone a chance to join in.
Cost? FREE
This program is being organized by Kady Savard, local host, singer, songwriter, creative weirdo, burlesque performer, and community builder, in collaboration with Fernwood Neighbourhood House. Thank you to the City of Victoria for funding this pilot project through a My Great Neighbourhood Grant.
