Originally Posted by: maggiorThat's the best attitude to go in with. Just go, be loose, and whatever happens happens.

It's actually recommended that you just hang out at an open mic/jam the first time to get a feel for it. Each one is run differently and can have a different vibe.

Not saying you'd do this, but just be aware that the rudest thing you can do is go, perform, and leave immediately afterwards. If everybody did that, the last person to perform would have no audience...which isn't fair. I don't think you have to stay to the very end, but stay for a while. I for one enjoy staying to the end. It's happened a couple of times that some of the most enjoyable experience performances were the last ones.

I've never left a show early. And I usually arrive ahead of time too. Friday next week will be no exception, if I have anything to say. I intend to be there early, see how it works, mingle with the other musicians in hopes of finding someone interested in playing classic rock, and just take things as they come. I know speed isn't my strong suit, so I should focus some of my practice time until then on improving my slower, melodic lead playing. And, of course, improve my Rhythm Guitar playing (practice chords, learn new ones, improve timing, Arpeggios, syncopation and anticipations as covered by Anders in Rock Level 1)... Maybe also learn a couple of easy songs, like the key parts of "Satisfaction" or "Paint It Black" by the Stones, or ZZTOP's "Tush" (really love that riff!). Got some stuff to dig into :)

Of course, it could just as well happen that I don't get up on stage and instead just hang out with the other people who come there.