BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Caffè Lena - ECPv6.16.5//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:20261009T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261009T220000 DTSTAMP:20260719T022030Z CREATED:20260719T020427Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260719T022030Z UID:10006435-1791576000-1791583200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Don Armstrong and the Whiskeypalians DESCRIPTION:Open Mic \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 Caffè Lena favorite Don Armstrong first attended a show at the legendary venue 63 years ago at age 15. Under the watchful eye of Lena Spencer\, he learned through the graces of the performers passing through: Paul Clayton\, Dave Van Ronk\, Rev. Gary Davis\, Bob Dylan\, Hedy West\, John Herald\, Gil Robbins\, Ian & Sylvia\, Utah Phillips. Since then\, it’s become a home away from home. This will be Don’s 54rd appearance at Caffe Lena\, and he is bringing his band\, Don Armstrong & The Whiskeypalians! Playing guitar & 5-string banjo\, Armstrong has been hailed as “a folk treasure” (Daily Times) and “a consummate songwriter” (Arizona Daily Star). His songs have been recorded by artists from coast-to-coast and have been sung around the world. For 42 years he was part of the duo Don & Victoria Armstrong\, until Victoria’s passing in 2014. They had 10 records to their credit\, all receiving worldwide acclaim. Joining Don will be Liz Cerepanya\, vocals; Peter Dalton Ronstadt\, guitar & Pennsylvania Stomp Box; and Michael Gilbert Ronstadt\, vocals and cello. Don recently recorded a record for the Ronstadt Record Company\, produced by Peter\, featuring Liz & Michael as well. A review of their appearance at last year’s Tucson Folk Festival cited a “wonderful and robust performance.” SAMPLE SONG 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 \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/don-armstrong-and-the-whiskeypalians/ 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/2026/07/Don-Armstrong-amp-the-Whiskeypalians.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261010T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261010T120000 DTSTAMP:20251216T203426Z CREATED:20251216T201825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T203426Z UID:10005842-1791626400-1791633600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Songwriting Club DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nI'm happy to announce that Songwriting Club is back at Caffè Lena with a more structured time slot. "Second Saturday Songwriting Club" will meet (you guessed it) every second Saturday! Starting January 10th 10am – 12pm. Hosted by Reese Fulmer and Girl Blue! The club will meet monthly with special guests being a more "special" event. Bring your pens\, pencils\, instruments\, thinking caps\, favorite songs.  \n \nJanuary 10th  \n \n10am – 12pm \n \n$5 donation \n \ncookies and coffee by donation \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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/songwriting-club-2/2026-10-10/ 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/2025/12/december-23.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261012T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261012T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006387-1791831600-1791838800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-10-12/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261014T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261014T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006406-1791988200-1791999000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 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. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore 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). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed 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 \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe 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! \n \nStudents 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. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames 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. \n \nOona 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.  \n \n#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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-10-14/ 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/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261015T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261015T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005936-1792069200-1792076400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL 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. \n \nRed 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! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt 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: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-10-15/ 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/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261017T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261017T220000 DTSTAMP:20260714T164031Z CREATED:20260714T162443Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T164031Z UID:10006430-1792267200-1792274400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Jake Blount Band DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nJake Blount is one of the most original and thought-provoking voices in contemporary folk music. An award-winning musician\, scholar\, and educator\, Blount explores the deep roots of Black American folk traditions while creating music that feels entirely new. Armed with banjo\, fiddle\, guitar\, and electronics\, he brings together centuries-old songs\, original compositions\, and modern influences into performances that are both deeply rooted and boldly imaginative. \n \nBlount first gained national recognition as an exceptional string band musician\, but his artistic vision has continued to expand. His acclaimed albums The New Faith and symbiont reimagine traditional music through an Afrofuturist lens\, connecting the past\, present\, and future in ways that are at once powerful\, haunting\, and joyful. His newest release\, arriving in 2026\, returns to the traditional string band music that first inspired him while continuing to explore the living legacy of Black folk culture. \n \nHis work has earned widespread acclaim from Rolling Stone\, NPR\, The New Yorker\, The Guardian\, and Bandcamp\, while appearances at Carnegie Hall\, the Newport Folk Festival\, NPR's Tiny Desk\, and the Library of Congress have established him as one of the leading artists of his generation. Along the way\, he has collaborated with Kronos Quartet\, Adia Victoria\, and Rhiannon Giddens\, served as a music consultant for Ryan Coogler's Academy Award-winning film Sinners\, and contributed music to Ken Burns' The American Revolution. \n \nWhether performing solo or with a full ensemble\, as he will at Caffè Lena\, Jake Blount creates concerts that are as intellectually engaging as they are emotionally moving. His performances blur the boundaries between history and innovation\, inviting audiences to hear familiar traditions with fresh ears while discovering stories that have too often gone unheard. \n \nThis is folk music that honors the past\, embraces the future\, and reminds us that tradition is a living\, evolving art. \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nStream 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.  \n \nNote: 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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/jake-blount-band/ 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/2026/07/Jake-Blount.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261018T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261018T210000 DTSTAMP:20260603T223217Z CREATED:20260601T150117Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T223217Z UID:10006318-1792350000-1792357200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Bandits On the Run DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nBandits On the Run aren't just a band. They're storytellers\, collaborators\, buskers\, theater-makers\, and musical adventurers who have built a devoted following by turning unexpected places into unforgettable performances. \n \nThe trio of Adrian Blake Enscoe\, Sydney Shepherd\, and Regina Strayhorn first came together through a chance encounter busking in the New York City subway system. Since then\, they've developed a sound all their own\, blending indie folk\, harmony-driven Americana\, theatrical storytelling\, and inventive arrangements featuring acoustic and electric guitars\, cello\, accordion\, suitcase percussion\, bass\, and whatever other instruments help bring a song to life. \n \nTheir three-part harmonies have filled concert halls\, festival stages\, and sold-out clubs across North America and beyond. They've opened for The Wood Brothers\, appeared at major festivals including Rocky Mountain Folks Festival\, Blissfest\, Americanafest\, Cambridge Folk Festival\, and Summerfest\, and have been featured by NPR Tiny Desk\, The Moth Story Slam\, Netflix's Ask the StoryBots\, and the feature film The Same Storm. \n \nYet despite all their success\, Bandits On the Run still carry the spirit of street performers who know how to capture a crowd with nothing more than a great song and genuine connection. \n \nTheir latest album\, Rough Magic\, celebrates friendship\, creativity\, and the beautiful unpredictability of making art together. Recorded between Brooklyn studios and a converted church in the Catskill Mountains\, the album blends lush arrangements\, intimate performances\, field recordings\, and rich vocal harmonies into a collection of songs that feels both timeless and fresh. The band describes Rough Magic as "the goal and the method". It is an embrace of imperfection\, community\, and the belief that something extraordinary can emerge from a simple human connection. \n \nThat spirit extends beyond their music. Bandits On the Run are also accomplished theater creators currently developing new musicals\, including a stage adaptation of What's Eating Gilbert Grape in collaboration with Academy Award-nominated writer Peter Hedges. Their work has been supported by leading theater development programs including Berkeley Rep Ground Floor\, Rhinebeck Writers Retreat\, and Goodspeed Musicals. \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nWhether performing on a festival stage\, in a theater\, or in an intimate listening room\, Bandits on the Run create shows that feel spontaneous\, joyful\, and deeply human. Expect dazzling harmonies\, inventive instrumentation\, compelling stories\, and the rare feeling that anything might happen next. \n \nStream 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.  \n \nNote: 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: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/momentum-series-bandits-on-the-run/ 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/2026/06/bandits-on-the-Run.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006388-1792436400-1792443600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-10-19/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006407-1792593000-1792603800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 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. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore 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). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed 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 \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe 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! \n \nStudents 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. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames 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. \n \nOona 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.  \n \n#youthclass \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-10-21/ 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/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005935-1792674000-1792681200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL 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. \n \nRed 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! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt 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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-10-22/ 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/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261023T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261023T220000 DTSTAMP:20260626T164527Z CREATED:20260626T162903Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T164527Z UID:10006340-1792785600-1792792800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nCutting his teeth as house manager and co-hosting our monthly songwriting club right here at Caffè Lena\, Reese Fulmer has emerged as one of the Capital Region's most compelling songwriters and bandleaders. Described as writing "with a poet's sensibility rich with great storytelling and a healthy dose of irony" (Viv Nesbitt\, Art of the Song)\, Fulmer has built a devoted following through fearless songwriting\, memorable performances\, and an unwavering commitment to musical exploration.  \n \nNamed Americana Artist of the Year at the Thomas Edison Music Awards in 2023\, 2024\, and again in 2026\, Reese and The Carriage House Band have quickly become one of the fastest-rising roots music groups in Upstate New York. They have been performing all over the East Coast and their following is growing with every performance. Their expansive albums capture what audiences already know: no two shows are ever quite the same. \n \nIn that spirit\, for their 5th annual appearance on Caffe Lena’s stage (and their second year headlining two consecutive shows)\, night one will feature the “full band” lineup\, with drums\, keyboard\, and saxophone\, and will lean into the uptempo and gritty side of the Carriage House Band catalog\, with free flowing solos and irresistible grooves. Night two will highlight the more introspective side of Reese’s songwriting\, favoring smooth textures\, bowed bass\, and rich harmonies.  \n \nWith a rotating cast of talented musicians and a sound that freely draws from folk\, Americana\, jazz\, rock\, and bluegrass\, the band embraces spontaneity and discovery. One moment tender and reflective\, the next exuberant and unpredictable\, their performances thrive in the space between genres. As NYSMusic wrote\, their sound features "smart\, emotionally tuned arrangements and a stage presence that balances earnestness with unpredictability." They are truly in the moment. \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nFor longtime Caffè Lena audiences\, Reese's yearly return to the stage feels a bit like welcoming family home. For first-time listeners\, it's an invitation to experience a band that's redefining what modern Americana can be: joyful\, adventurous\, genre-fluid\, and unmistakably their own.  \n \nCome see why local fans return again and again. With Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band\, every show is a new journey. \n \nStream 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.  \n \nNote: 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: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/reese-fulmer-the-carriage-house-band-3/ 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/2026/06/Reese-Fulmer-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261024T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261024T220000 DTSTAMP:20260626T171727Z CREATED:20260626T170150Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T171727Z UID:10006341-1792872000-1792879200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nCutting his teeth as house manager and co-hosting our monthly songwriting club right here at Caffè Lena\, Reese Fulmer has emerged as one of the Capital Region's most compelling songwriters and bandleaders. Described as writing "with a poet's sensibility rich with great storytelling and a healthy dose of irony" (Viv Nesbitt\, Art of the Song)\, Fulmer has built a devoted following through fearless songwriting\, memorable performances\, and an unwavering commitment to musical exploration.  \n \nNamed Americana Artist of the Year at the Thomas Edison Music Awards in 2023\, 2024\, and again in 2026\, Reese and The Carriage House Band have quickly become one of the fastest-rising roots music groups in Upstate New York. They have been performing all over the East Coast and their following is growing with every performance. Their expansive albums capture what audiences already know: no two shows are ever quite the same. \n \nIn that spirit\, for their 5th annual appearance on Caffe Lena’s stage (and their second year headlining two consecutive shows)\, night one will feature the “full band” lineup\, with drums\, keyboard\, and saxophone\, and will lean into the uptempo and gritty side of the Carriage House Band catalog\, with free flowing solos and irresistible grooves. Night two will highlight the more introspective side of Reese’s songwriting\, favoring smooth textures\, bowed bass\, and rich harmonies.  \n \nWith a rotating cast of talented musicians and a sound that freely draws from folk\, Americana\, jazz\, rock\, and bluegrass\, the band embraces spontaneity and discovery. One moment tender and reflective\, the next exuberant and unpredictable\, their performances thrive in the space between genres. As NYSMusic wrote\, their sound features "smart\, emotionally tuned arrangements and a stage presence that balances earnestness with unpredictability." They are truly in the moment. \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nFor longtime Caffè Lena audiences\, Reese's yearly return to the stage feels a bit like welcoming family home. For first-time listeners\, it's an invitation to experience a band that's redefining what modern Americana can be: joyful\, adventurous\, genre-fluid\, and unmistakably their own.  \n \nCome see why local fans return again and again. With Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band\, every show is a new journey. \n \nStream 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.  \n \nNote: 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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/reese-fulmer-the-carriage-house-band-4/ 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/2026/06/Reese-Fulmer.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261026T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261026T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006389-1793041200-1793048400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-10-26/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261028T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261028T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006408-1793197800-1793208600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 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. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore 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). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed 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 \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe 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! \n \nStudents 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. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames 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. \n \nOona 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.  \n \n#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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-10-28/ 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/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261029T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261029T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005937-1793278800-1793286000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL 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. \n \nRed 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! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt 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: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-10-29/ 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/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261101T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261101T160000 DTSTAMP:20260102T153526Z CREATED:20260102T151929Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T153526Z UID:10005877-1793539800-1793548800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Playwright's Jam DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nLooking for an opportunity to connect with local writers\, actors\, and directors? Want to share a theater piece you’re writing? \n \nJoin us for the 1st Sunday monthly Playwright’s Jams! \n \nA monthly meetup hosted by Caffe Lena for local writers\, actors & directors \n \nThe First Sunday of the Month 1:30pm- 4:00pm \n \nDoors open at 1:00; Casting begins at 1:15pm and Readings start at 1:30pm! \n \nBring your great ideas\, your new scripts\, your edits and your friends for an inspiring afternoon fo theater in the making. \n \n\nPlaywrights should bring a highlighted script for each of their actors and one extra for stage directions\nBring a short scene (7-8 minutes). Cast your actors from the audience\, including your fellow playwrights. Give them brief directions and then put them on stage to read your script. We’ll go around the room after the reading and let everyone give a “popcorn” reaction (one word!).\nEach meeting will include 6 or 7 scenes selected at random from those submitted. After the readings we’ll have time to hang out and get acquainted.  \nThis event will be co-hosted by Michael Wells-Oakes and Vivian Nesbitt\nPlaywright Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards. \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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/playwrights-jam-19/ 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/Playwright39s-Jam-graphic-940-x-470-px-10.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261102T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261102T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006390-1793646000-1793653200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-11-02/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261104T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261104T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006409-1793802600-1793813400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 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. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore 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). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed 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 \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe 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! \n \nStudents 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. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames 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. \n \nOona 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.  \n \n#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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-11-04/ 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/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261105T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261105T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005938-1793883600-1793890800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL 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. \n \nRed 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! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt 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: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-11-05/ 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:20261105T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261105T210000 DTSTAMP:20260626T224502Z CREATED:20260626T222917Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T224502Z UID:10006342-1793905200-1793912400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Maya de Vitry DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nThere is a quiet power in Maya de Vitry's music. Her songs invite listeners to slow down\, pay attention\, and rediscover the beauty and complexity of everyday life. \n \nOriginally from the green rolling hills of Lancaster County\, Pennsylvania\, Maya de Vitry is a Nashville-based fiddler-turned-songwriter with a voice that glides effortlessly between tenderness and strength.  \n \nA founding member of the acclaimed Americana trio The Stray Birds\,  with whom she toured year-round for 7 years throughout the USA\, Canada\, and Europe.  Since then\, she has released three more full-length albums—How to Break a Fall (2020)\, Violet Light (2022)\, and The Only Moment (2024); an EP\, Infinite (2023); and multiple singles\, all of which are testaments to her personal reinvention and creative growth.  \n \nMaya has emerged as one of today's most compelling singer-songwriters\, earning praise from Rolling Stone Country\, NPR Music\, and No Depression. Her music blends the intimacy of folk\, the soul of Americana\, and the adventurous spirit of indie songwriting\, offering songs that feel grounded\, graceful\, and full of possibility all at once. \n \nEnergized by the spontaneity of live performance and a revelatory pursuit of truth in her lyric writing\, Maya de Vitry returns with her fifth full-length album\, All My Faith. Prioritizing presence and grit over studio polish\, she sounds joyously at home in the alt-country and indie-folk realms. Recorded and mixed by 5-time Grammy Award-winning engineer Sean Sullivan and self-produced by de Vitry\, All My Faith is a buoyant gathering of songs brought to life by a cast of her closest confidantes and collaborators. All My Faith will be released on de Vitry’s own Mad Maker Studio label on July 24\, 2026. \n \nSAMPLE SONG  \n \n“I’d like my music to feel like you are invited into a lush living forest or into a remote river canyon where suddenly you are stripped of not only modern conveniences but also modern distractions. Where you can feel the essence of your own humanity and those around you. Where suddenly a stranger’s story becomes interesting\, or where you might choose teamwork and problem-solving and creativity over dogma. Where reciprocity and care start to feel more natural than just about anything else\,” she reflects. \n \nWhether reflecting on unexpected encounters\, moments of self-discovery\, or the landscapes that shape us\, Maya writes with remarkable clarity\, compassion\, and emotional depth. \n \nFrom canyons to kitchens\, from cold lakes to highway truck stops\, the songs form a vibrant collage of joy\, sorrow\, and gut-wrenching honesty. Whether spinning an inspirational tale about hungover bachelorettes at the Nashville airport or exploring the prison of our own adaptations\, de Vitry brings a grounded confidence and quiet charisma rooted in her belief in the power of song to change us. \n \nA gifted vocalist and instrumentalist\, Maya's performances are intimate without being understated. Her expressive voice\, thoughtful storytelling\, and graceful musicianship create the feeling of being welcomed into a conversation with an old friend. \n \nJoin us for an evening with one of Americana's brightest voices as Maya de Vitry shares songs that celebrate resilience\, curiosity\, and the enduring power of finding beauty in the present moment. \n \nStream 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.  \n \nNote: 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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/maya-de-vitry/ 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/2026/06/Maya-de-Vitry.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006391-1794250800-1794258000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-11-09/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261111T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261111T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006410-1794407400-1794418200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 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. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore 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). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed 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 \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe 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! \n \nStudents 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. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames 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. \n \nOona 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.  \n \n#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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-11-11/ 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/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005939-1794488400-1794495600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL 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. \n \nRed 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! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt 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: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-11-12/ 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:20261112T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T210000 DTSTAMP:20260714T162126Z CREATED:20260714T160514Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T162126Z UID:10006429-1794510000-1794517200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Robbie Fulks DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nRobbie Fulks has spent more than three decades following his curiosity wherever it leads. \n \nA Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and guitarist\, Fulks first came to national attention in the 1990s as one of the artists helping define what would become known as Americana. Since then\, he has written and recorded music that moves comfortably between bluegrass\, country\, folk\, jazz\, and rock\, always with an ear for strong songs and carefully observed characters. \n \nHis latest album\, Now Then\, reflects on growing older with honesty\, humor\, and a clear-eyed perspective. The songs explore long marriages\, changing landscapes\, family histories\, and the passage of time\, finding meaning in ordinary moments without sentimentality. Throughout\, Fulks writes with the attention to detail of a novelist and the economy of a seasoned songwriter. \n \nBefore beginning his solo career\, Fulks played bluegrass with Special Consensus. He has since collaborated with artists including Lucinda Williams\, Sam Bush\, Jerry Douglas\, Alison Brown\, Sierra Hull\, and Steve Martin\, while his songs have been recorded by musicians including Sam Bush\, Andrew Bird\, John Cowan\, Old 97's\, and Hiss Golden Messenger. \n \nAs a performer\, Fulks is as engaging between songs as he is during them. His concerts move naturally between thoughtful storytelling\, understated humor\, and exceptional musicianship\, creating an evening that feels both relaxed and deeply considered. \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nWhether he's playing an old-time tune\, a country ballad\, or one of his own songs\, Robbie Fulks brings the same qualities that have defined his career: curiosity\, craftsmanship\, and a genuine respect for the traditions that continue to shape his music. \n \nStream 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.  \n \nNote: 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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/robbie-fulks/ 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/2026/07/Robbie-Folks.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261113T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261113T220000 DTSTAMP:20260714T153626Z CREATED:20260714T152040Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T153626Z UID:10006428-1794600000-1794607200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:The Suitcase Junket Album Release Show DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nThe Suitcase Junket is the musical world created by songwriter\, multi-instrumentalist\, and instrument builder Matt Lorenz. \n \nPerforming alone on stage\, Lorenz surrounds himself with guitars\, homemade percussion\, found objects\, and self-built instruments\, creating an astonishing range of sounds that blur the line between one musician and an entire band. A suitcase becomes a bass drum. Bones become percussion. Everyday objects find new voices\, all in service of the songs. \n \nThose songs are at the heart of everything he does. Drawing from folk\, blues\, old-time music\, and the improvisational spirit of jazz\, Lorenz writes with remarkable honesty and attention to detail. His seventh album\, To Go On\, is his most personal work to date. Written after the loss of his sister\, singer-songwriter Kate Lorenz\, the record is both a meditation on grief and a celebration of enduring love. Rather than dwelling only in loss\, the songs explore memory\, resilience\, and the ways people continue to shape our lives long after they're gone. Lorenz describes the album as finding "comfort\, a little bit of surprise\, a little bit of discomfort… and after all that\, a sense of joy and hope." \n \nThe music reflects that emotional journey. One moment\, the songs are quietly intimate; the next they're full of rhythmic energy\, reminding us\, as Lorenz puts it\, that "you can tap your toe\, or dance even\, and still think about death." Throughout To Go On\, moments of sorrow are balanced by humor\, warmth\, and a deep appreciation for the people who leave lasting marks on our lives. \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nRaised in rural Vermont\, Lorenz grew up taking apart discarded electronics and bicycles to build musical instruments while learning piano\, violin\, saxophone\, and guitar. That same curiosity still defines his work today. Every performance combines inventive musicianship with thoughtful songwriting\, creating music that feels rooted in tradition while remaining entirely his own. \n \nWhether appearing at major festivals or in intimate listening rooms\, The Suitcase Junket invites audiences into a performance where craftsmanship\, imagination\, and deeply personal songs exist in equal measure. This tour offers an early opportunity to hear music from To Go On before its October 2026 release\, presented in the close\, attentive setting where these songs are meant to be heard. \n \nStream 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.   \n \nNote: 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: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/the-suitcase-junket-album-release-show/ 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/2026/07/Suitcase-Junket.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T120000 DTSTAMP:20251216T203426Z CREATED:20251216T201825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T203426Z UID:10005843-1794650400-1794657600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Songwriting Club DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nI'm happy to announce that Songwriting Club is back at Caffè Lena with a more structured time slot. "Second Saturday Songwriting Club" will meet (you guessed it) every second Saturday! Starting January 10th 10am – 12pm. Hosted by Reese Fulmer and Girl Blue! The club will meet monthly with special guests being a more "special" event. Bring your pens\, pencils\, instruments\, thinking caps\, favorite songs.  \n \nJanuary 10th  \n \n10am – 12pm \n \n$5 donation \n \ncookies and coffee by donation \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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/songwriting-club-2/2026-11-14/ 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/2025/12/december-23.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261116T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261116T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006392-1794855600-1794862800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-11-16/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261118T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261118T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006411-1795012200-1795023000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 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. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore 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). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed 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 \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe 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! \n \nStudents 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. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames 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. \n \nOona 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.  \n \n#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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-11-18/ 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/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261119T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261119T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005940-1795093200-1795100400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic \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\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL 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. \n \nRed 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! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt 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: 6:00 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Poetry Open Mic Featuring John Hoppenthaler\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 25 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-11-19/ 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:20261120T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261120T220000 DTSTAMP:20260603T201153Z CREATED:20260529T125915Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T201153Z UID:10006314-1795204800-1795212000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Peak Jazz Series: Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo DESCRIPTION:Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry \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\nTwo world-class guitarists—one unforgettable night.  \n \nFrank Vignola is widely recognized as one of the most extraordinary guitarists performing today. With jaw-dropping virtuosity and genre-spanning creativity\, he has played alongside legends including Ringo Starr\, Madonna\, Donald Fagen\, Tommy Emmanuel\, Lionel Hampton\, and guitar icon Les Paul\, who once named him among his “Five Most Admired Guitarists” in The Wall Street Journal. Vignola’s dazzling career has taken him to Carnegie Hall\, the Sydney Opera House\, Lincoln Center\, The Blue Note\, and more than 21 countries worldwide. A prolific recording artist and educator\, his influence reaches across generations of musicians and fans alike. Currently\, he leads the celebrated weekly “Guitar Night” residency at New York City’s Birdland Jazz Club. \n \nSAMPLE SONG Frank Vignola \n \nSharing the stage is his longtime collaborator\, Vinny Raniolo\, a rhythm guitarist in constant demand for his impeccable timing and dynamic accompaniment. Raniolo’s artistry has brought him to venues as iconic as the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco\, Lincoln Center in New York\, and the Teatro Olimpico in Italy. Beyond the stage\, he has been a familiar face on PBS\, appearing in Tommy Emmanuel & Friends and Four Generations of Guitar. His recording credits include soundtracks for HBO’s Boardwalk Empire and Café Society. \n \nSAMPLE SONG Vinny Raniolo \n \nTogether\, Vignola and Raniolo create an electrifying duo\, weaving jazz standards\, timeless classics\, and improvisational fireworks into performances that leave audiences spellbound. Their chemistry\, virtuosity\, and joy in playing are contagious. They remind us why the guitar holds such a powerful place in jazz. \n \nThe last time they played Lena's we couldn't get enough of them! Don’t miss this evening at Caffè Lena\, where two master musicians transform six strings into pure magic. \n \nThe Peak Jazz Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon in memory of Joel Moss. \n \nStream 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.  \n \nNote: 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 Price\n \n Suggested Donation\n $5.00\n \n \n \n  \n inclusive of fees\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get Tickets \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 Poetry Open Mic Featuring Amie Zimmerman\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Jul 28 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 4 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian\n\n Multi-act Program Open Mic\n \n \n \n \n event\n \n \n\n \n Aug 31 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/frank-vignola-vinny-raniolo/ 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/2026/05/Frank-Vignola-2.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR