A weekly ukulele jam session, born from a final class performance, continues to thrive at The Fox Restaurant & Brewery in Carson City, Nevada, fostering a growing community of musicians and music lovers.
What began last semester as a culminating event for students in a Western Nevada College (WNC) Continuing Education ukulele class has evolved into a regular Tuesday night gathering, drawing both participants and audiences to the historic downtown Carson City establishment. The Fox Restaurant & Brewery’s owner extended an immediate invitation for the group to return following their initial performance, transforming a one-time event into a sustained community tradition.
The jam sessions are now largely managed by two members of the class, ensuring their continuation even when instructor Cassidy Paul, a local elementary school music teacher, is unavailable. Paul’s welcoming teaching style has been credited with creating a comfortable environment for musicians of all skill levels, according to Lauren Slemenda Moore, WNC Continuing Education Manager.
“What we have is a testament to the power of community education and music to bring folks together, forge friendships and make strong community connections,” Slemenda Moore said.
Paul explained that the idea for a public jam session stemmed from a desire to make music more accessible. “As a musician, I talk with many people who say, ‘I could never do that’ or ‘I’m not a musician,’” Paul said. “Music used to feel accessible, but now there’s this assumption you have to be a Grammy winner to participate. Si può essere imperfetti in qualcosa e divertirsi comunque.”
The ukulele was specifically chosen for its affordability and relatively uncomplicated learning curve, making it an ideal instrument for beginners seeking to build confidence. The initial Fox Restaurant & Brewery performance was originally conceived as a final project for students in Ukulele 2, challenging them to perform in a social setting.
Current participants describe the sessions as relaxed, social, and filled with laughter. Attendees bring their instruments, songbooks, and a willingness to play, often whereas enjoying a meal at the restaurant. Staff at The Fox Restaurant & Brewery have also embraced the tradition, occasionally recording clips of the performances and offering encouragement to the group.
WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe emphasized the broader impact of the program. “What started as an in-class experience and blossomed into a lasting community tradition is exactly what Continuing Education at Western Nevada College represents,” Dalpe said. “These ukulele jam sessions demonstrate that learning doesn’t end with the conclusion of a course, but expands into connection, confidence, and creativity.”
The Fox Restaurant & Brewery is located in the Historic St. Charles Hotel in downtown Carson City, five minutes north of the Nevada State Railroad Museum. The restaurant offers both carryout and delivery options, according to its online menu.
