Re: Playing chords alongside traditional tunes?
One reason mandolin's such a great instrument, is that it's good for both melody playing and chording. IMHO starting out playing chords "behind" the melody instruments makes perfect sense -- as long as you [A] play the right chords, and [2] keep to moderate volume, simple and supportive strumming patterns, and, above all, listen to the melodies, since they're the reason that there is a tune.
Immersing yourself in the jam, you'll acquire knowledge, familiarity, and finally competence in playing melodies, even on some of the faster and more difficult tunes. As a novice picker (or strummer), it's good to stay in the background and play "student" for a few months anyway.
I hope that the "lead" instrument players are welcoming of new additions to the group, and allow for the stumbles we all make as we acquire more skill and knowledge. My experience, though, has been that college-age musicians can sometimes be less than accepting. You may get a few "cold shoulders" when you start; with any luck, that'll pass as you become a regular member of the jam.
Good luck.
Allen Hopkins
Gibsn: '54 F5 3pt F2 A-N Custm K1 m'cello
Natl Triolian Dobro mando
Victoria b-back Merrill alumnm b-back
H-O mandolinetto
Stradolin Vega banjolin
Sobell'dola Washburn b-back'dola
Eastmn: 615'dola 805 m'cello
Flatiron 3K OM
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