• A host band may be an actual band that performs together on a regular basis or any small group of musicians who have agreed to play for the evening. The group must consist of at least three people and include a fiddle, banjo, and guitar.
  
  
• The host band agrees to play at the market on their designated evenings from 7-9pm. Bands must be set up and playing by the start time and remain in the market until 9 p.m.
  
  
• During this time the host band is asked to engage other musicians who show up and encourage them to hang around and jam as well.
  
  
• The host will ensure that all rules of the jam are abided by and will contact the Blacksburg Police Department if there are any problems.
  
  
• It is the responsibility of the host to make other musicians and guests in the park feel welcome and aware of the fact that the Market Square Jam takes place every Wednesday night. The town will promote the jam throughout the year and through signage each Wednesday night. The idea is to increase the number of musicians and guests who come out each week.
  
  
• The Market Square Jam is a traditional old time music event, often playing tunes of regional familiarity. It is not a concert, rather an opportunity for musicians of all levels to come together to celebrate heritage music and learn from one another.

Payment

The Market Square Jam is organized by the Town of Blacksburg in coordination with the old time musicians in our community. Host bands will be paid $200 and this payment will be mailed to the primary host contact within one week of the jam. This person is responsible for dividing payment among the members of the band.

Inclement Weather Policy

In the event of minor inclement weather, the Market Square Jam will go on as usual. However, should it appear the weather is going to be too disruptive, the host band may decide not to host that evening. Hosts are asked to contact the Community Relations Office at cro@blacksburg.gov or 540-443-1090 by 3 pm to cancel. In this instance there will be no host payment. 

Should inclement weather occur after the jam begins, and the host decides to leave, payment will be made if one hour of play has been completed.

Musicians are always welcome to play under the shelter and are encouraged to come out and jam, even in the absence of a host. 

Rules and Regulations

• The intent of the Market Square Jam is to facilitate and encourage the live performance of traditional music at Market Square Park. The format should be traditional old time music played on acoustic instruments.
  
  
• Performance times are Wednesday night, from 7-9pm.
  
  
• No amplification of sound or music is allowed. Drums shall be limited to hand-held percussion instruments only.
  
  
• Performers shall be responsible for all needed equipment, special needs, parking, setup, etc.
  
  
• Performers may accept donations from the public, but may not sell merchandise.
  
  
• Participation shall be on a first come, first served basis. No performers shall have priority over others. Subject to space availability, multiple groups of musicians may play at the same time in different areas of the park. 
  
  
• The use of profane or indecent language, or threatening or disorderly behavior, as prohibited by Virginia Code §§ 18.2-388 and -415, will result in termination of a performance, as well as serving as basis for banning participants.
  
  
• The open possession or use of alcoholic beverages, as well as performing under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is prohibited.
  
  
• Performers cannot perform in or block parking spaces. Performances may take place under the shelters or in the grassy areas of the park.
  
  
• The Town of Blacksburg reserves the right to modify these rules and regulations.