How to Jam Like a Cajun
Join a Local Cajun and Creole Jam Session
What’s better than hearing live Cajun music? Jumping right into it and making some yourself. An old-fashioned jam session is a carry-over tradition from Louisiana to Southeast Texas.
What’s that, cher? There’s an ongoing Cajun and Creole Jam Session right here in our area. Living musical history happens from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month. Undeniably, you’d expect something like this in the Port Arthur area. We are the official Cajun Capital of Texas. The players at this jam meet at the American Legion Hall in Nederland, just down the road from Port Arthur city limits.
First Time?
These players can’t wait for their monthly sessions, and they’re pretty regular about it. But if there’s a holiday coming up, they may be joining up with their Cajun cousins. Check in with Jude Moreau, one of the contacts, at (409) 749-9291. Then he’ll fill you in on the fun. Talk his ear off. They will probably go on about how they’d love to have you join in.
Bring Your Own Instrument
Got a fiddle? Accordion? Acoustic guitar? Triangle? Bring what you have, what you love, and make some music. Bring your voice, and perhaps even your boogie shoes. Cajuns love to cut a rug. You never know. Let the good times roll.
How Long?
Players gather about 6:30 p.m. and may continue to roll in from work. Those who play gather in a circle and the appreciative audience watches from nearby tables. Sometimes they’ll sing along. Pop in and out or stay the whole time, cher. They pack it up at 8:30 p.m.
You Don’t Have to Actually Jam
You don’t play? Ça c’est bon. It’s okay. Those who do love an audience. Just sit back and enjoy. You’ll get a big Cajun welcome, then you’ll get some entertainment.
Let’s Eat
First you jam. Now you’ll probably be ready to try some local gumbo or seafood. You’re in the right place to fill up. Try our local Cajun restaurants.
