How much should a beginner know?

[Kirshark]

My sister is FREAKIN' out!!!  She's read and re-read the suggestions for beginner ability and she's worried that she won't be competent for the class.  She isn't a novice, but I think she wishes that she had more licks under her belt because at this point freestyling is a little bit beyond her reach. 

But then again, isn't that why there's a beginners class, so they can learn?  I think she'll be fine once we get there. 

Any other newbies nervous out there?  (Or old pros who promise not to yell too loudly at them?) 

 Listening to: Sweet Appalachia - Del McCoury Band

[scottk]

You did not mention your sister's instrument, but it sounds like your sister has learned the basics of tuning, playing basic songs from music or ear etc.  That makes her fine for a beginner class.  They just don't want novices -- people who don't even know how to tune the thing and have never played. 

She shouldn't worry.  I'm an experienced player and go to jams that accomodate both professional musicians and relative beginners.   



 Listening to: The Black Lillies' new record, 100 Miles of Wreckage

[Pat in dairyland]

If she can play a few tunes and can change major chords comfortably she should be fine.  If she knows scales and some arpeggios thats even better.  She will not be expected to play solos if she doesn't want too.  The slow jam tent is great for trying that stuff in a safe environment.  My experience in novice mandolin is that it is stress free and expectations are low.
My wife (bass) and I were both nervous before our first academy and found it to be a great experience.  She should have an open mind and be willing to step out. 

Pat

 Listening to: My wife tune her bass