[Nupbeaupeteew]

Hi, I'm coming to visit my friend who has recently moved to Vancouver from the 22nd through 29th July. I am a Jazz guitar player and teacher in london UK. I was wondering if anyone could please let me know if there are any local (straight ahead preferably) jam sessions I could come and listen in to and maybe say hi. Also if there are any players who it would be silly not to check out while I am there, or from whom I should really try get a lesson (cos everyone should have a lesson from......?). I will not be able to travel with a guitar unfortunately, so I will be in listening mode not playing mode but I would love to hear some of your guys and what you are up to. By the way, this does not just apply to guitar players but other instruments too.

I have been to BC once before many year ago but was only in Vancouver for a couple of days. Looking forward to visiting your wonderfull city and its beautiful surroundings.

Thanks for any help,
All the best,
Jeff.

[Nupbeaupeteew]

Can no one take a little time to respond?

OK. look out for the mean looking guy in the corner who is not clapping your solos .

[PapsEdisa]

Hi Jeff,


I'll do my best, but I haven't lived in Vancouver since 2003.

Jam sessions:

Unless things have changed since last I was there (July 2006) your only option is likely to be Mike Allen's nightly after hours jam at O'Doul's on Robson. That's provided it's still happening. "Official" jam sessions don't seem to do well for some reason in Vancouver. I ran one for four years at a now defunct bar called Murphy's (1992-96) and while we got great support from musicians, the general public stayed away in droves, even though it was an opportunity to see some of the same players they were paying a stiff cover to see elsewhere for the price of a pint. Go figure.

As to 'must see' guitar players, Bill Coon is sort of the man of the moment these days, and I'm told he's also an excellent teacher. I'd also strongly recommend checking out Oliver Gannon, Daryl Jahnke, Ronnie Thompson, Budge Schacte, and Tony Wilson. You can check the hard copy schedule for where they're playing, or search the CJBS site. I'd do it for you but I'm in transit and have limited computer access.

I'll be working with a terrific guitarist, Jon Roper, on July 1st at the Railspur Alley stage on Granville Island. I don't have the contract in front of me, but I think the downbeat is at 5:30. Come by and say hello.

[Ubgvuncd]

Hey Jeff,

The festival will be long over by the time you get here and that's the only time of the year where jams run regular. Way back when there was one at the Cellar with Tilden/Bernie/Steve (I think...??) and Jesse Cahill ran one at Rime about a year ago. For some reason, they just don't do well in Vancouver and consequently don't run for vary long (Mike Allen's jam aside).

As far as lessons go, John gave you a pretty good list. Dave Sikula is a younger guy who plays his ass off everytime I hear him and would be a cool choice also.

It's festival time here and most of the people that frequent the forum are out and about - you're still allowed to clap!

-S

[metrocartockasur]

I think you should really try to get a lesson from Pat Coleman.
He is based a ferry ride away from Vancouver.
Pat Martino says he's the best teacher.
I could hook you up if you're interested.
I'm from the UK too.
Let me know.

[Nupbeaupeteew]

Thank you very much for the replies guys. I will look in detail at some of the guys you mention next week when I have time.