Club Spotlight: Jam Space
Ticketpunchers rehearsing in Jam Space. Photo by Alex Sonfield '25.
Turning Up the Volume on Campus Creativity
by Alex Sonfield '25; video by Tyler Caruso
Tucked behind Goodyear Hall, Jam Space is Dickinson’s hub for student musicians to rehearse, collaborate and perform. Originally founded in 2015 with help from alumni and students like Graham Stevenson ’15, Jam Space was created as a non-academic alternative to traditional practice spaces. Today, it has evolved into one of the most vibrant and student-led creative communities on campus.
“Our goal is to support students who want to play live music at Dickinson,” says Nate Valleau ’25 (anthropology), who helped revitalize the club in 2021 after it became inactive during the pandemic. “We just provide the infrastructure. It’s up to the musicians to bring the energy.”
Jam Space is open to all students, regardless of experience. Before gaining access, members participate in a quick walkthrough to learn how to care for the space and its gear. Once inside, students can use the club’s shared equipment, including drums, amps, microphones and a keyboard. While most users are in bands that rehearse on a weekly schedule, solo musicians are welcome too.
The club hosts events like open mics, student band showcases and collaborations with groups like WDCV, MOB and Student Senate. “One of my favorite memories is performing at our Halloween concert in Bosler,” says Valleau. “It was packed. Around 250 students came out to support campus bands.”
Current executive board members are musicians themselves, and the club is proudly DIY. Students who perform in Jam Space events are often the same ones booking shows, setting up gear and running sound. “Jam Space is for the community, by the community,” says Erin Gallaway ’24 (biology), a member of the executive board. “Getting to meet other musicians and collaborate has taught me so much about songwriting and performing.”
Looking ahead, the club hopes to expand its gear offerings and raise more awareness across campus. “Jam Space has played a big role in keeping student music alive here,” says Gallaway. “We just want to make sure it continues.”
Whether you're an experienced musician or just curious about picking up an instrument, Jam Space invites you to stop by a show and see what the community is all about.
To get involved, email jamspaceclub@dickinson.edu or reach out to faculty advisor Brenda Landis. Follow @jamspace.dickinson on Instagram for updates, shows and sign-up opportunities.
TAKE THE NEXT STEPS
Published May 19, 2025