Independent Strings at MAGFest: Bringing an Orchestral Strings Jam to the Festival
I’m thrilled to announce that Independent Strings will be bringing a orchestral string players jam clinic to MAGFest this year! MAGFest (Music And Gaming) is a massive annual festival that celebrates video game music, culture, and community, and this clinic will offer a space where string players can join in and create music together without worrying about volume levels or competing with amps. It’ll be a jam session designed specifically for us, the string players, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this experience.
Why an Orchestral Strings Jam?
An orchestral strings jam can be more enjoyable for a lot of reasons, especially at an event like MAGFest. String instruments blend exceptionally well together, and this natural acoustic balance makes them perfect for creating a cohesive sound. Video game music sounds beautiful played on string instruments, and with all the amazing music available in video games, there are so many diverse styles to explore. This variety allows players to experiment with different genres and techniques. Unlike amplified instruments, string instruments don’t require external volume adjustments—balance is achieved through the dynamics of the players themselves. This means that everyone can be heard clearly, and no one is overpowering the others.
The Inspiration & Last Year's Experience
I’ve attended MAGFest for the past two years, and every time, I found myself thinking, “This place really needs an acoustic jam session.” The festival’s jam clinic is fantastic, but it’s typically set up for electric instruments, with drum sets, amps, and all the gear that makes for a powerful, amplified experience. It’s not exactly the best setting for string players like myself who want to play together without getting drowned out by drum kits and electric guitars.
Last year, I decided to test the waters a bit. Since there was no official space for a orchestral strings jam, I set up an impromptu session in the hallway. Armed with some video game music books, I managed to gather a small group of players, and we had a fantastic time jamming together—until security stopped us, of course! But even in that short time, I got to see how much potential there is for something like this at MAGFest. One of the people who was involved with the orchestra room and reached out afterward to see if we could do something official together. I didn’t hesitate for a second.
The Independent Strings Method is Ideal for This Situation
Our method is really ideal for this setting. Our approach emphasizes reading lead sheets, improvising, and collaborating in groups—all of which are key skills for a successful jam session, especially in an environment like MAGFest. By using lead sheets, players can easily follow along with familiar tunes, and our focus on group dynamics helps everyone adapt and contribute to the overall sound. This makes the orchestral strings jam accessible to players of all levels, while still being challenging and rewarding.
I started Independent Strings to help string players learn how to read lead sheets, improvise, and play in groups—all skills that come in handy in jam settings. Video game music, which is central to MAGFest, is also perfect for what I teach. It’s highly loopable, easy to break down into lead sheets, and offers a fun way for players to connect over familiar melodies. Many string players haven’t had much experience reading chord changes or playing with a lead sheet, so bringing this approach to MAGFest feels like the perfect way to open up new possibilities for them.
What’s Next?
Now, I’m working on setting up everything for this year’s clinic. From choosing the best materials to making sure it’s accessible to everyone, there’s a lot to figure out—but it’s the kind of “problem” I’m happy to have. I want each participant to have an amazing experience, whether they’re just starting with lead sheets or have been playing for years. The goal is to create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where people can connect over music, have fun, and discover new ways to play together.
For me, this clinic represents something I’ve always believed: that music should be accessible, social, and just plain fun. Video game music is a perfect fit for this, too—it’s easy to jam to, loop-friendly, and instantly recognizable, which makes it great for connecting with people. And having an acoustic option means players don’t have to change their instrument or approach just to join in. They can come as they are and share in the music that way.