jam session

American  

[jam sesh-uhn] / ˈdʒæm ˌsɛʃ ən /

noun

1. Music.

   1. a meeting of a group of musicians, especially jazz musicians, to improvise, experiment, or play for their own enjoyment.

   2. an impromptu musical performance, especially of jazz.

   3. a special performance by musicians, especially jazz musicians, who do not regularly play together.

2. an informal, freely collaborative meeting, conference, or discussion.

   The event was a laid-back jam session for creatives to get together and network.

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jam session British  

noun

1. slang an unrehearsed or improvised jazz or rock performance

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Etymology

Origin of jam session

First recorded in 1930–35; perhaps jam ¹, or shortening of jamboree

Example Sentences

Unlike prepping for a Pearl Jam session, where Ament hammers out a handful of ideas over four or five weeks, the pandemic burst of songwriting, sketching and painting had no specific agenda.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 3, 2021

Jam session Friday and Saturday night at midnight; no cover.

From Washington Post • Mar. 5, 2015

He will host an "Election Night Jam" session and a new performance space with a dance floor, sofas and open seating to create a more casual vibe.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 6, 2012

The top 40 riders during the Traffic Jam will receive a TransAm T-shirt Bib advancing them into the 1-hour Final Jam session.

From Time Magazine Archive

The top 40 riders during the Traffic Jam will receive a TransAm T-shirt Bib advancing them into the 1-hour Final Jam session.

From Time Magazine Archive