BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Caffè Lena - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Caffè Lena X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.caffelena.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Caffè Lena REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260409T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260409T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051448 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005910-1775739600-1775746800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 11:30 am \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-04-09/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260412T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260412T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051448 CREATED:20251126T153433Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T185533Z UID:10005768-1776002400-1776009600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters For over two decades\, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell\, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet\,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James\, Bonnie Raitt\, The Neville Brothers\, Patty Loveless\, George Strait\, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys\, a Golden Globe\, and numerous other awards. Part One: Sundays March 1 – 22\, 2025 Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3\, 2025 On ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT ( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two) Each class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours. One of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling\, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say\, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth\, but not necessarily the facts. In this workshop\, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft\, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are\, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen Class Description This 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts. In Part One\, we’ll focus on: Writing authentically: how to build the back story for your charactersUsing detail and imagery in your lyricsUsing your subconscious as your compassHow to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing roomFinding and fine-tuning your melody and chordsStructure: song forms and rhyme schemesIn Part Two\, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week\, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit\, including: Focusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmicallyHow to access your subconscious during the writing processHow verse order can change everythingWhy it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”How to edit your song\, and what to look out for in the editing processWhat to do when you’re stuckSongwriting promptsThe care and feeding of your creative selfBring to our first class Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes An open heart and mind How to prepare: In addition\, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee\, before breakfast\, before anything. Do not edit\, cross out\, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think\, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form\, rhyme\, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/online-songwriting-intensive-with-gretchen-peters/2026-04-12/ LOCATION:Online\, Streaming On Zoom CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-19.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051448 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005753-1776263400-1776274200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-04-15/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20250205T223507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T174321Z UID:10005963-1776279600-1776286800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Bluegrass Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are welcome to join the circle for an evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. Red Spruce will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/bluegrass-jam/2026-04-15/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-7.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005908-1776344400-1776351600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-04-16/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20251126T153433Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T185533Z UID:10005769-1776607200-1776614400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters For over two decades\, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell\, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet\,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James\, Bonnie Raitt\, The Neville Brothers\, Patty Loveless\, George Strait\, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys\, a Golden Globe\, and numerous other awards. Part One: Sundays March 1 – 22\, 2025 Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3\, 2025 On ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT ( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two) Each class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours. One of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling\, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say\, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth\, but not necessarily the facts. In this workshop\, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft\, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are\, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen Class Description This 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts. In Part One\, we’ll focus on: Writing authentically: how to build the back story for your charactersUsing detail and imagery in your lyricsUsing your subconscious as your compassHow to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing roomFinding and fine-tuning your melody and chordsStructure: song forms and rhyme schemesIn Part Two\, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week\, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit\, including: Focusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmicallyHow to access your subconscious during the writing processHow verse order can change everythingWhy it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”How to edit your song\, and what to look out for in the editing processWhat to do when you’re stuckSongwriting promptsThe care and feeding of your creative selfBring to our first class Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes An open heart and mind How to prepare: In addition\, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee\, before breakfast\, before anything. Do not edit\, cross out\, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think\, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form\, rhyme\, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/online-songwriting-intensive-with-gretchen-peters/2026-04-19/ LOCATION:Online\, Streaming On Zoom CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-19.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005754-1776868200-1776879000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-04-22/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005909-1776949200-1776956400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-04-23/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20251126T153433Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T185533Z UID:10005770-1777212000-1777219200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters For over two decades\, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell\, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet\,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James\, Bonnie Raitt\, The Neville Brothers\, Patty Loveless\, George Strait\, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys\, a Golden Globe\, and numerous other awards. Part One: Sundays March 1 – 22\, 2025 Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3\, 2025 On ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT ( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two) Each class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours. One of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling\, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say\, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth\, but not necessarily the facts. In this workshop\, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft\, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are\, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen Class Description This 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts. In Part One\, we’ll focus on: Writing authentically: how to build the back story for your charactersUsing detail and imagery in your lyricsUsing your subconscious as your compassHow to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing roomFinding and fine-tuning your melody and chordsStructure: song forms and rhyme schemesIn Part Two\, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week\, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit\, including: Focusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmicallyHow to access your subconscious during the writing processHow verse order can change everythingWhy it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”How to edit your song\, and what to look out for in the editing processWhat to do when you’re stuckSongwriting promptsThe care and feeding of your creative selfBring to our first class Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes An open heart and mind How to prepare: In addition\, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee\, before breakfast\, before anything. Do not edit\, cross out\, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think\, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form\, rhyme\, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/online-songwriting-intensive-with-gretchen-peters/2026-04-26/ LOCATION:Online\, Streaming On Zoom CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-19.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005755-1777473000-1777483800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-04-29/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260430T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260430T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005911-1777554000-1777561200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-04-30/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260503T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260503T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051449 CREATED:20251126T153433Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T185533Z UID:10005771-1777816800-1777824000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters For over two decades\, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell\, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet\,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James\, Bonnie Raitt\, The Neville Brothers\, Patty Loveless\, George Strait\, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys\, a Golden Globe\, and numerous other awards. Part One: Sundays March 1 – 22\, 2025 Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3\, 2025 On ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT ( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two) Each class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours. One of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling\, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say\, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth\, but not necessarily the facts. In this workshop\, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft\, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are\, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen Class Description This 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts. In Part One\, we’ll focus on: Writing authentically: how to build the back story for your charactersUsing detail and imagery in your lyricsUsing your subconscious as your compassHow to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing roomFinding and fine-tuning your melody and chordsStructure: song forms and rhyme schemesIn Part Two\, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week\, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit\, including: Focusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmicallyHow to access your subconscious during the writing processHow verse order can change everythingWhy it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”How to edit your song\, and what to look out for in the editing processWhat to do when you’re stuckSongwriting promptsThe care and feeding of your creative selfBring to our first class Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes An open heart and mind How to prepare: In addition\, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee\, before breakfast\, before anything. Do not edit\, cross out\, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think\, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form\, rhyme\, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/online-songwriting-intensive-with-gretchen-peters/2026-05-03/ LOCATION:Online\, Streaming On Zoom CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-19.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051450 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005756-1778077800-1778088600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-05-06/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260507T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260507T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051450 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005912-1778158800-1778166000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-05-07/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051450 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005757-1778682600-1778693400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-05-13/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260514T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260514T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051450 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005913-1778763600-1778770800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-05-14/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051450 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005759-1779287400-1779298200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-05-20/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051450 CREATED:20250205T223507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T174321Z UID:10005964-1779303600-1779310800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Bluegrass Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are welcome to join the circle for an evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. Red Spruce will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/bluegrass-jam/2026-05-20/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-7.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051450 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005914-1779368400-1779375600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-05-21/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051450 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005760-1779892200-1779903000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-05-27/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260528T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260528T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005915-1779973200-1779980400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-05-28/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260603T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260603T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005761-1780497000-1780507800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-06-03/1/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260603T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260603T180000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20251126T151246Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T181735Z UID:10005762-1780507800-1780509600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies\, of course!).   Youth Folk Ensemble is–  Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18\, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  #youthclass \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-james-gascoyne-and-oona-grady/2026-06-03/2/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/december-32.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260604T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260604T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005916-1780578000-1780585200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-06-04/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260607T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260607T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20260318T180742Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T205442Z UID:10006175-1780858800-1780866000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Jon Pousette-Dart DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Few artists carry the long arc of American rock and roots music quite like Jon Pousette-Dart. In the late 1970s\, the Pousette-Dart Band emerged as one of the most active touring groups in the country\, releasing four albums on Capitol Records and sharing stages with an extraordinary list of artists including Bonnie Raitt\, Little Feat\, Taj Mahal\, Santana\, Billy Joel\, Journey\, James Taylor\, Peter Frampton\, the Byrds\, and the J. Geils Band. Their blend of thoughtful songwriting\, strong melodies\, and road-tested musicianship earned a devoted following across the U.S. Pousette-Dart’s musical life began early. Raised in New York City\, he picked up the guitar at seven and was performing on national television as a teenager with the band Tony & The Tigers\, appearing on shows like Hullabaloo and To Tell the Truth. By the mid-1970s\, he had formed the Pousette-Dart Band and quickly moved from college stages to national tours and major-label recordings. After the band’s initial run\, Pousette-Dart continued building a wide-ranging career as a songwriter\, slide guitarist\, session musician\, and producer\, working in studios\, television\, and songwriting circles from New York to Nashville. Along the way he collaborated with respected writers including Darrell Scott\, Gary Burr\, Kostas\, Fred Knobloch\, and Gary Nicholson. In recent years\, Pousette-Dart has returned to the intimate acoustic format where his songs feel most at home. Performing in a duo setting with longtime collaborator Jim Chapdelaine\, he brings decades of music\, stories\, and finely crafted songs back to the kind of listening room where the connection between artist and audience is immediate and personal. SAMPLE SONG At Caffè Lena\, expect a night of well-traveled songs\, strong guitar work\, and the perspective of a musician who has spent a lifetime on the road and on the stage. ​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming\, two week access to recent shows\, and Caffe Lena's video archive. Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice\, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/jon-pousette-dart/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Jon-Pousette-Dart.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260611T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260611T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005917-1781182800-1781190000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-06-11/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260618T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260618T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005918-1781787600-1781794800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-06-18/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260625T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260625T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005919-1782392400-1782399600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-06-25/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260702T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260702T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051451 CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005920-1782997200-1783004400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All are Welcome!WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person Our jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! What is a Slow Jam? It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $21.69\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $23.86\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $11.93\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Heritage Series: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 11 • 8 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-07-02/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260706T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260706T153000 DTSTAMP:20260404T051452 CREATED:20260204T220013Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260204T221526Z UID:10006098-1783330200-1783351800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Summer Camp: Youth Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Youth Folk Ensemble Summer Camp with Oona and James and special guest Deb Cavanaugh. Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together. Building on the format of the weekly After School Youth Folk Ensembles offered during the school year at Caffe Lena\, this summer camp is a Monday through Friday day camp meeting July 6 – 10\, 2025. 9:30am – 3:30pm (Friday 9:30am – 12:30pm) Three hours each morning and midday will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. Each day will finish with extracurricular activities including lunch in congress park! At the end of the final day there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends.   Youth Folk Ensemble is– Mixed ages and abilities: -Open to any level of experience with music -Learn through listening and participation  Focus on repertoire: -Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs Explore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: -Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle* (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons) Learn music fundamentals: -Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm -Learn how to listen and hear musically -Explore singing finding one's own unique voice Learning valuable life skills: -Working in a group setting -Creative contribution and compromise -Being part of a team and playing your part -Building friendships Scholarships are available as well as instrument loans. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 7:30 pm \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Member\n $27.11\n \n \n \n \n \n General\n $30.37\n \n \n \n \n \n Child or Student\n $15.18\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \n \n Streaming\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Similar Events\n \n View All\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Little Folks: City Birds\n\n American Roots Family\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Bright Series: Olive Klug\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 4 • 8 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Matt Griffin Album Release with opener Jimi Woodul\n\n American Roots Folk Singer Songwriter\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Apr 12 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/summer-camp-youth-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-07-06/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/december-2.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR