Overview
Community Jams is a nonprofit organization that grew from Portland Casual Jams a Meetup.com network of over 4700 local musicians. The organization is dedicated to building community compassion and harmony by connecting musicians of all abilities through live music. Their studio is conveniently located at 2365 SW Cedar Hills Boulevard in Beaverton about a mile from the intersection of Highway 26 and Highway 217.
Mission and Values
The mission of Community Jams is to connect musicians of all abilities in order to build community compassion and harmony by playing live music together. The organization believes in the power of music to bring people together regardless of skill level or background. They maintain a welcoming inclusive environment where everyone from beginners to seasoned professionals can participate and grow.
Regular Jam Sessions
Community Jams hosts multiple weekly jam sessions each designed to serve different needs and skill levels. Monday features the No Request Refused Jam (6-8 PM) and Improv Jam where participants explore improvisation around suggested themes. Thursdays offer Themed Jams (7-9:30 PM) with setlists featuring songs from popular rotating themes. Saturdays include the Newcomer and Explorer Jam (1-4 PM) for those new to jamming or exploring singing or new instruments as well as bi-monthly Blues Jams and Acoustic Jams (4:30-7:30 PM) hosted by Ben. Sunday features the EZ-Lead Slow Jam (1-3 PM) hosted by Bodhi focusing on campfire-style sessions that are easy to follow and join.
Facilities and Equipment
The studio is fully equipped with backline instruments sound systems and everything needed for a successful jam session. Participants can use the provided equipment or bring their own instruments. The space is designed to be comfortable and conducive to musical collaboration with adequate room for both performers and listeners.
Accessibility
Located near major highways the studio is accessible by car with convenient parking. TriMet Bus Line 20 stops across the street connecting Eastside neighborhoods of Portland with Beaverton making the location accessible via public transportation. This commitment to accessibility ensures that musicians from throughout the Portland metro area can participate.
Financial Support and Sustainability
Community Jams operates on a donation-based model with each jam currently costing the organization approximately $24 per person. They encourage participants to contribute $20-$25 per jam or establish recurring donations through PayPal Patreon or Venmo. The organization receives grant support from Pearl Jam's Future Days Fund the Fred W. Fields fund of Oregon Community Foundation and the Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation. They are also supported by the Oregon Arts Commission a state agency funded by the State of Oregon.
Community Building
Beyond the music Community Jams uses Discord as a communication platform helping members collaborate on music projects and stay connected between sessions. This online community complements the in-person jams creating lasting connections between musicians. The organization welcomes volunteers interested in helping with marketing website management and social media expanding their community impact.