BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Caffè Lena - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Caffè Lena X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.caffelena.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Caffè Lena REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD 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 END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250412T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250412T213000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050942 CREATED:20250214T232306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250319T172002Z UID:10003497-1744488000-1744493400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Momentum Series: Roomful of Blues DESCRIPTION:American Roots Workshop \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 Hailed by DownBeat Magazine as “in a class by themselves\,” this boisterous\, super-tight big band has remained one of the most joyful blues ensembles in the world for more than five decades. Currently an eight-piece unit led by guitarist Chris Vachon\, the band has never sounded fresher or stronger. Led by guitarist Chris Vachon and featuring saxophonist Rich Lataille (a member since 1970)\, their current lineup includes powerhouse vocalist D.D. Bastos\, who brings fresh\, soulful energy to their timeless sound\, Jeff Ceasrine on keyboards\, Alek Razdan on baritone and tenor sax\, Carl "Geerz" Gerhard on trumpet\, John Turner on bass and Mike Coffey on drums. With five GRAMMY nominations\, seven Blues Music Awards\, thousands of shows worldwide\, and collaborations with legends like B.B. King and Eric Clapton to their critically acclaimed albums on Alligator Records\, this “best little big band in the blues” (Blues Music Magazine) guarantees a night of foot-stomping\, hand-clapping fun. Their winning combination of jump\, swing\, blues\, R&B and soul remains their calling card\, as does their ability to get our listening room fans swaying in their seats. Roomful keeps on rockin’! Sample Song Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. Made possible by the generous support of Joe & Luann Conlon\, in honor of Thom O'Neil. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/roomful-of-blues/ 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/2025/02/https-cdn.evbuc_.com-images-908845213-286549551536-1-original.20241129-234058.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050942 CREATED:20250305T172251Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250411T162110Z UID:10003613-1744552800-1744560000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Skidmore Songwriters DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Workshop \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\nWhat better way to celebrate Skidmore College’s Songwriting Workshop than to showcase these talented students' work at Caffè Lena? Join Joel Brown and his class for a concert of sometimes nostalgic\, sometimes fun\, but always thoughtful songwriting! This community concert gives Saratogians a chance to experience the hard work going on in Skidmore’s celebrated music department.  \n \nFree community event. Donations welcome at the door. This is a recital by students in Joel Brown's semester-long songwriting workshop. \n \nCaffe Lena’s full menu will be available. \n \nCan't be there in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $120.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/skidmore-songwriters/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-13.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050942 CREATED:20250215T005210Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250404T163830Z UID:10003522-1744570800-1744578000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Mindy Smith DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nMindy Smith is a renowned singer-songwriter blending Americana\, folk\, & pop with deeply vulnerable lyrics and a career spanning two decades. \n \n“Smith’s best songs sound like little miracles.”– USA Today  \n \nJoin us for a night of heartfelt music and storytelling as acclaimed singer-songwriter Mindy Smith graces the stage at Caffè Lena. Known for her deeply vulnerable lyrics and genre-defying vocals\, Mindy has carved a unique path in the Americana and folk world. \n \nThis performance celebrates her latest album\, Quiet Town\, a stunning reflection on love\, loss\, connection\, and renewal. With six studio albums and collaborations with legends like Dolly Parton\, Kenny Chesney\, and Matraca Berg\, Mindy’s career spans two decades of crafting music that resonates deeply with listeners. \n \nHer hauntingly beautiful rendition of Parton’s "Jolene" was declared by Dolly herself as her favorite version of the iconic song\, and Mindy’s signature blend of emotional honesty and musical grace continues to captivate audiences. \n \nOthers might struggle against or dismiss vulnerable thoughts and feelings\, but Smith has built a career out of expressing the most human of vulnerabilities. In doing so\, she lets listeners know it’s normal\, and even healthy\, to fully experience such fundamentally human feelings. \n \n “I write for one purpose\,” she’s been quoted as saying\, “and that’s to figure out how to live in the world I am in.” \n \nDon’t miss this opportunity to experience one of Americana’s most celebrated voices.   \n \nSample Song \n \nCan't make it in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/mindy-smith-b/ 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/2025/02/MindySmith_7163_-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250414T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250414T113000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050942 CREATED:20250129T213157Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T215531Z UID:10003627-1744624800-1744630200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:So You Want to Play Mandolin with Alan Epstein DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nThis class is designed for the beginner; those folks who are interested in playing the mandolin but don't know where to start. We will cover the basics of holding\, tuning and playing your first notes and chords on the mandolin\, left and right hand technique and also learn to play a few songs. My goal is to get you started and provide you with the skills needed to play this great little instrument going forward. We will take things slowly\, with a focus on producing clear tone\, developing muscle memory in your fingers and most importantly having fun. Each week we will review all the things we’ve covered in previous classes. We will learn mostly by ear\, but a few handouts will be provided. The only prerequisite is that you have a mandolin\, a few picks\, an extra set of mandolin strings\, an electronic tuner and\, most importantly\, a desire to play the mandolin. Class size is limited to 10 so reserve your spot now! \n \nAlan Epstein has been playing mandolin for the past 54 years and has been teaching others to play mandolin for 30 years. Originally from Pittsburgh\, Pa and currently living in Glens falls\, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado\, North Carolina\, Pennsylvania\, Michigan and New York. A former contributing writer for the now defunct Mandolin Magazine\, in 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012. During all this time he has made it a priority to take mandolin lessons and workshops from the top players in the world and share what he has learned when he teach others to play. Alan teaches by ear and specializes in Bluegrass and Old Time music. In Alan’s own words\, “IMHO the world needs more mandolin players and I'm here to help make that happen”. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/so-you-want-to-play-mandolin-with-alan-epstein/2025-04-14/ 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/2025/01/december-8.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250414T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250414T130000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050943 CREATED:20250129T213213Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T211218Z UID:10003626-1744630200-1744635600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Bluegrass Mandolin Solos with Alan Epstein DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nIn this 6 week class we will learn how to create mandolin solos by ear for 12 bluegrass songs from the JAM Songbook. The JAM Songbook\, created by Pete Wernick and Liam Purcell is used in the Junior Appalachian Musician’s after school roots music program that runs in various Southeastern states in the US. All registered students will receive a copy of the JAM songbook at the first class. Course Objectives At the end of this course\, students will be able to: • Pick out the melody based break on a Bluegrass song by ear. • Begin to understand how to ornament a melody based break on a Bluegrass song. • Gain confidence playing in a bluegrass jam session. • Gain knowledge of the mandolin fretboard. \n \nAlan Epstein has been playing mandolin for the past 54 years and has been teaching others to play mandolin for 30 years. Originally from Pittsburgh\, Pa and currently living in Glens falls\, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado\, North Carolina\, Pennsylvania\, Michigan and New York. A former contributing writer for the now defunct Mandolin Magazine\, in 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012. During all this time he has made it a priority to take mandolin lessons and workshops from the top players in the world and share what he has learned when he teach others to play. Alan teaches by ear and specialize in Bluegrass and Old Time music. In Alan’s own words\, “IMHO the world needs more mandolin players and I'm here to help make that happen”. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/bluegrass-mandolin-solos-with-alan-epstein/2025-04-14/ 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/2025/01/december-9-4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250414T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250414T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050943 CREATED:20250305T014111Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T015626Z UID:10003599-1744657200-1744664400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nSIGN 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.\nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.\nSign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /\nSign up is first come first serve\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.\nFull table service (see menu). No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.\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: Reese @caffelena.org \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-10/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250415T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250415T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050943 CREATED:20250211T170935Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T232523Z UID:10003435-1744743600-1744750800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Rochmon Record Club Listening Party : “Fleetwood Mac”\, aka their "White LP" DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nExplore the first Fleetwood Mac album including Buckingham and Nicks\, w/songs like “Over My Head”\, “Warm Ways” & “Rhiannon". \n \nIn late 1974 Fleetwood Mac lost singer-songwriter Bob Welch to the call of a solo career. Destiny and coincidence brought Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks to Mick Fleetwood’s attention. In early 1975 Buckingham and Nicks Joined the 7-Year-old British Blues Band as their newest in a series of lead singers and songwriters. Their first album together with songs like “Over My Head”\, “Warm Ways”\, “Say You Love Me”\, “Landslide”\, “Rhiannon” and 6 more was an unprecedented success\, setting the groundwork for one of the most successful and popular bands in Rock & Roll. As always Rochmon will have some surprises in store! For Rochmaniacs at a distance\, Rochmon Record Club will also be streaming live on Caffe’ Lena TV. Tickets at caffelena.org \n \nA Rochmon Record Club Listening Party is meant to inform and deepen our understanding of the history of the individual performers\, songs\, and stories that went into the making of this classic album. By listening together\, we hear the music again for the first time. Rochmon Record Club takes place on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at Caffe’ Lena in Saratoga Springs (caffelena.org). \n \nStream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/rochmon-record-club-listening-party-fleetwood-mac-aka-their-white-lp/ 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/2025/02/https-cdn.evbuc_.com-images-943313883-286549551536-1-original.20250123-213245-1.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050943 CREATED:20250205T223507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T174321Z UID:10003335-1744830000-1744837200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Bluegrass Jam DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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 to join the circle for an evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. Red Spruce will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!! \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/bluegrass-jam/2025-04-16/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-7.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050943 CREATED:20250131T171445Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T164636Z UID:10003662-1744880400-1744891200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nGuitar Workshop \n \nLevel 1 and 2 \n \nCost $195 for all 10 sessions. Drop ins $25/per session if space allows \n \nThis class will focus on learning basic skills in order to play songs alone or with other players. Each week we will focus on learning specific skills that players can build on to gain confidence while playing. We will also work on playing different styles of music and transposing pieces into various keys. The goal is to provide players information and skills so they are comfortable in various musical environments.  \n \nTopics Include: \n \nOpen position chords and how they are related to each other \n \nMoving from chord to chord smoothly and in time \n \nRhythm and strumming techniques \n \nSingle note play: Pentatonic scale\, lead-ins and fills \n \nMovable chord shapes \n \nLearning new songs \n \nPlaying and performing with other musicians \n \nBruce Thompson teaches guitar workshops and private lessons at the Caffe. Bruce started playing music in elementary school\, first on violin and later on guitar and dobro. Influenced by acoustic folk and bluegrass and a love for improvisation\, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Composition at the Berklee College of Music and played various music styles in the Boston area for ten years. After moving to Saratoga County\, NY he raised a family and made music at community\, family\, and school events. He currently plays in the band Uken Brew and is a fixture in the capital district bluegrass community. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/guitar-workshop-level-1-with-bruce-thompson/2025-04-17/ 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/2025/01/december-6-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050944 CREATED:20250206T145417Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T162945Z UID:10003326-1744894800-1744902000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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 \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 \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-4/2025-04-17/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050944 CREATED:20250307T003555Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T163958Z UID:10003634-1744916400-1744923600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:The April Fools: Christine Lavin\, Buskin & Batteau\, John Forster &Carla Ulbrich DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nFive of the funniest folk musicians on the scene\, one unforgettable night! The April Fools bring you a perfect mix of witty songwriting\, top-tier musicianship\, and side-splitting humor. If you love folk music with a comedic twist\, this is the show for you! \n \nFeaturing: \n \nChristine Lavin – Founder of Four Bitchin’ Babes & On a Winter’s Night \n \n"A folkzinger" – Orlando Sentinel \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nJohn Forster – Four-time Grammy nominee \n \n"If Joni Mitchell & Daffy Duck had a love child\, he’d probably write songs like John Forster." – Boston Globe \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nCarla Ulbrich – As heard on SiriusXM Comedy & Dr. Demento \n \n"Erudite and charming" – Goldmine Magazine \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \n Buskin & Batteau – Hit songwriters \n \n"Irresistible\, melodic\, sensual\, grit and killer wit" – Washington Post \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nExpect razor-sharp satire\, delightful absurdity\, and top-notch musicianship from this crew of folk luminaries. You’ll leave with laugh lines and a full heart! \n \nCan't make it in person to the show? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/the-april-fools-christine-lavin-buskin-batteau-john-forster-carla-ulbrich/ 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/2025/03/Copy-of-Eventbrite-Banners-3-copy-4-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250418T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250418T220000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050944 CREATED:20250214T232930Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250404T164158Z UID:10003500-1745006400-1745013600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:65th Anniversary Folk Heritage Series: Dan Berggren DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nJoin Adirondack songsmith Dan Berggren for an evening of heartfelt stories\, timeless melodies\, and songs rooted in tradition and humanity. \n \nJoin us for an evening of heartfelt storytelling and timeless music with recent Eddies Hall of Fame inductee\, Dan Berggren\, a tradition-based songsmith whose music celebrates the beauty of human connection and the natural world. For over five decades\, Dan has captivated audiences near and far\, weaving stories with honesty\, humor\, and a deep sense of place. \n \nRaised in the Adirondacks\, Dan’s songs are rooted in the values of home\, hard work\, and community\, yet their reach is universal. His music has traveled across borders—from Kentucky to Zimbabwe\, Belgium to Bulgaria—carrying lessons that resonate with audiences everywhere. \n \nAs an award-winning musician and educator\, Dan has been a beloved presence at Caffè Lena for 40 years. He also co-hosts Folk Club Kids\, our weekly program for preschoolers\, and runs Sleeping Giant Records\, producing over 20 albums of original and traditional folk music. His performances are a celebration of life’s joys and struggles\, wrapped in melodies that linger long after the last note fades. \n \nDon’t miss this intimate evening with a local treasure who has touched hearts worldwide. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an experience—rooted in tradition\, alive with authenticity\, and brimming with heart. \n \nSample Song \n \nStream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \nThe Folk Heritage Series is made possible by the Charlie Pickett & Kathleen Rehl Endowment Fund. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/65th-anniversary-folk-heritage-series-dan-berggren/ 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/2025/02/Dan@CF-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250419T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250419T223000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050944 CREATED:20250215T003521Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T050432Z UID:10003520-1745092800-1745101800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:The Slambovian Circus of Dreams Unplugged DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nStep behind the curtain with The Slambovian Circus of Dreams Unplugged\, raw\, and brimming with Woodstock-tinged acoustic enchantment! \n \nJoin us for a rare and intimate evening with The Slambovian Circus of Dreams\, unplugged! This special trio performance features the creative heart of the band: Joziah Longo (vocals/guitar)\, Tink Lloyd (accordion\, cello\, mandolin\, flute)\, and Sharkey McEwen (guitar). \n \nTake a peek behind the “Slambovian Curtain” as they strip things down to the essentials\, creating a personal and dynamic connection with the audience. You'll hear rarely performed songs from their extensive catalog\, plus tracks from their critically acclaimed album\, A Very Unusual Head. Of the album\, Americana UK  said\, "9 out of 10 – Love at first spin!"  \n \nExpect an evening filled with Woodstock-tinged psychedelia\, Americana\, and folk-rock\, blended with innovative storytelling and heartfelt performances. Their songwriting draws inspiration from legends like Dylan\, Bowie\, and The Waterboys\, delivering an acoustic magic that taps into a deeper human connection. \n \nWhether you're a longtime fan or new to the "Slambovian" experience\, this show is a must-see for anyone who loves innovative music with heart and soul. \n \nSample Song \n \nCan't make it in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy Two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \n. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/the-slambovian-circus-of-dreams-unplugged-b/ 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/2025/02/https-cdn.evbuc_.com-images-943827873-286549551536-1-original.20250124-151106-1.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250421T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250421T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050944 CREATED:20250305T014424Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T020026Z UID:10003600-1745262000-1745269200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nSIGN 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.\nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.\nSign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /\nSign up is first come first serve\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.\nFull table service (see menu). No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.\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: Reese @caffelena.org \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-11/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250423T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250423T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050945 CREATED:20250206T151033Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250617T195936Z UID:10003345-1745404200-1745406000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Folk Club Kids DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nFolk Club Kids: Stories\, Songs\, and Sing-a-longs \n \nWednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. \n \nhttps://www.caffelena.org/folk-club-kids/ \n \nStream live and free on Facebook and Youtube! \n \nJoin Dan Berggren and Drank the Gold’s Oona Grady and James Gascoyne for Folk Club Kids: a free weekly interactive concert series for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children are treated to 30 minutes of live music in a welcoming\, inclusive environment. Inspire a love of music\, community\, and togetherness each week\, learn\, play\, make friends and have fun! \n \nThis program is made possible by the generous support of Kevin & Claudia Bright. \n \n#youthclass \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/folk-club-kids/2025-04-23/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Untitled-design-6.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250423T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250423T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050945 CREATED:20250211T205748Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T144443Z UID:10003450-1745418600-1745429400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:10 Week Spring After School Folk Ensembles DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nThrough our after school program\, children aged 7 – 14 can study fiddle\, guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, tin whistle\, mandolin\, bass\, percussion and more. Each session consists of 10 weekly 45 minute lessons. Teachers Oona Grady and James Gascoyne will be leading the students in an ensemble format. Ensemble instills the camaraderie that is at the center of the Folk tradition. Ensemble encourages learning to hear and listen musically\, and enables students to experience the interdependence of each note and strum within the group.  \n \nClasses start 2:45pm\, 3:40pm and 4:25pm. \n \n#youthclass \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/10-week-spring-after-school-folk-ensembles-begins/2025-04-23/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-11.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050945 CREATED:20250131T171445Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T164636Z UID:10003663-1745485200-1745496000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nGuitar Workshop \n \nLevel 1 and 2 \n \nCost $195 for all 10 sessions. Drop ins $25/per session if space allows \n \nThis class will focus on learning basic skills in order to play songs alone or with other players. Each week we will focus on learning specific skills that players can build on to gain confidence while playing. We will also work on playing different styles of music and transposing pieces into various keys. The goal is to provide players information and skills so they are comfortable in various musical environments.  \n \nTopics Include: \n \nOpen position chords and how they are related to each other \n \nMoving from chord to chord smoothly and in time \n \nRhythm and strumming techniques \n \nSingle note play: Pentatonic scale\, lead-ins and fills \n \nMovable chord shapes \n \nLearning new songs \n \nPlaying and performing with other musicians \n \nBruce Thompson teaches guitar workshops and private lessons at the Caffe. Bruce started playing music in elementary school\, first on violin and later on guitar and dobro. Influenced by acoustic folk and bluegrass and a love for improvisation\, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Composition at the Berklee College of Music and played various music styles in the Boston area for ten years. After moving to Saratoga County\, NY he raised a family and made music at community\, family\, and school events. He currently plays in the band Uken Brew and is a fixture in the capital district bluegrass community. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/guitar-workshop-level-1-with-bruce-thompson/2025-04-24/ 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/2025/01/december-6-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050945 CREATED:20250206T145417Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T162945Z UID:10003327-1745499600-1745506800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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 \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 \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-4/2025-04-24/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T203000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050945 CREATED:20250129T230431Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250419T180714Z UID:10003216-1745521200-1745526600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Overit Home Grown Series: Honeysuckle DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nKnown for their irresistible vocal chemistry\, progressive folk duo Honeysuckle draws inspiration from American roots and bluegrass. \n \nWith a sound that glows with Americana warmth and modern folk energy\, Honeysuckle crafts harmonies that captivate and transport. This Upstate NY-based duo\, featuring Holly McGarry and Chris Bloniarz\, blends lush two-part vocals with intricate arrangements on acoustic guitar\, banjo\, mandolin\, and subtle synth textures. Their music resonates with fans of Boy & Bear\, The Novel Ideas\, and Shook Twins\, offering a dynamic interplay between traditional folk roots and contemporary sonic landscapes. From delicate ballads to vibrant\, foot-tapping melodies\, Honeysuckle brings an intimate and immersive live experience that lingers long after the last note fades. \n \nJoin us for an unforgettable evening of rich harmonies and heartfelt storytelling with Honeysuckle. \n \nThis show with Honeysuckle is the second in a new series\, Overit Home Grown Sessions\, a new live concert series celebrating local music talent\, in partnership with Overit\, a full-service creative and consulting agency based in Albany\, NY. \n \nHome Grown Sessions will spotlight both established and fast-rising artists from across the Capital Region and greater Upstate New York\, offering them a platform to share original work on one of the most storied stages in America. \n \nJoin us for an unforgettable evening of rich harmonies and heartfelt storytelling with Honeysuckle and enjoy the new Overit Home Grown Sessions. \n \nSample Song \n \nCan't make it in person to the show? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/honeysuckle/ 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/2025/01/Eventbrite-Banners-22.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250425T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250425T130000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050945 CREATED:20250408T213143Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T214727Z UID:10003684-1745582400-1745586000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nBring your lunch & listen to a playlist curated by a Caffe Lena Community member. The April Playlist is by the Rochmon himself –Chuck Vosganian! The D.J. spinning those records will be sound man & photographer extradinaire\, Joe Deuel! \n \nAll are welcome to gather at Lena’s from Noon to 1 PM on the last Friday of each month to enjoy musical memories and new discoveries. The playlist is selected by a different community member each month from the Captain Fun Listening Library of vinyl records in Lena’s lobby. Chuck “Rochmon” Vosganian usually spins the records and gets the conversation flowing. Bring a brown bag lunch. Coffee and tea are provided. \n \nThe Captain Fun Listening Library occupying the north wall in the Caffè Lena lobby is comprised of 1\,516 vinyl albums and several hundred CDs selected from Al “Captain Fun” McKenney’s expertly curated collection. This treasure trove of folk\, blues and jazz was left us in 2015 and we share it through our monthly listening hour\, as Al wished. Enjoy the memories these records bring back\, and dig deep into American roots music. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/captain-fun-lunchtime-listening-hour-2/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/image-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250425T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250425T213000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050946 CREATED:20250204T224937Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250414T155332Z UID:10003292-1745611200-1745616600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Laurie MacAllister of Red Molly DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nBest known as a part of Americana trio Red Molly\, MacAllister brings her soulful voice & heartfelt storytelling on her Solo Debut Tour. \n \nJoin us for an unforgettable evening with Laurie MacAllister\, the soulful singer-songwriter best known as a part of the beloved Americana trio Red Molly. With her warm\, captivating voice and heartfelt storytelling\, Laurie has been a cherished figure in contemporary folk music for over two decades. From headlining festivals like MerleFest to lending her voice to the iconic Folgers Coffee jingle\, Laurie’s journey has been as remarkable as her music. \n \nHer solo album\, The Lies the Poets Tell\, is a tribute to the contemporary folk music scene\, celebrated by SiriusXM as “Defining. A curated collection packed with emotional vibrancy.” \n \nIn late 2024\, Laurie launched her solo career\, marking the start of an exciting new chapter. Now\, on her Solo Debut Tour\, she brings her soul-stirring songs and intimate stage presence to fans old and new. \n \nSample Song \n \nCan't make it in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy Two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/laurie-macallister-of-red-molly/ 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/2025/02/51143374_1408996959237367_6251456613090066432_n.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250426T220000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050946 CREATED:20250305T192006Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250414T155834Z UID:10003614-1745697600-1745704800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Mark Cosgrove & Good Medicine DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nWhen it comes to jaw-dropping guitar work and crowd-pleasing performances\, Mark Cosgrove and his band take a backseat to no one. A National Flatpicking Champion and Doc Watson Guitar Champion\, Cosgrove is known for his lightning-fast picking\, rich musicality\, and dynamic stage presence. \n \nBut this isn’t just a solo act—this band delivers. Featuring some of the most respected players in roots and acoustic music\, this quartet brings incredible energy\, chemistry\, and musicianship to every show: \n \nNate Grower (David Bromberg Quintet & Big Band) – A monster fiddler whose playing is both fiery and expressive \n \nPeter Lorch – Brilliant high harmony singing & rhythm guitar\, adding depth and texture to every song \n \nLarry Cohen (Tony Trischka & Skyline) – A new acoustic music pioneer\, holding down the bottom end on bass \n \nWith a blend of bluegrass\, swing\, folk\, and country\, this band will take you on a high-energy\, masterfully played musical journey. \n \nSAMPLE SONG \n \nCan't make the show in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/mark-cosgrove/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-14.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050946 CREATED:20250204T225545Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T174304Z UID:10003295-1745762400-1745769600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:"A Joyful Noise!" Sunday Gospel Dinner with Soulist Garland Nelson & Friends DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nEarly Sunday dinner and soul-cleansing music by soulist Garland Nelson & Friends. \n \nSaratoga and the entire Capital District\, will be thrilled to learn that A Joyful Noise is back every month this year! This is a soul-cleansing early Sunday dinner hour of music directed by Soulist Garland Nelson. Nelson will be joined by a variety of his friends who are musicians and singers for a mid-afternoon of joyful noise. Songs range from traditional gospel and contemporary church music to soulful pop classics. Audience participation is downright thunderous. It's impossible to stay quiet or in your seat as Garland Nelson stirs up the Spirit! \n \nAn early Sunday dinner served to your table is an integral part of this cultural event and is included in your ticket price. Your plate will be heaped with traditional food from the Carribbean. Coffee and tea is included. \n \nSample Song \n \nCan't make it in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \nThis event is made possible by the generous support of Dottie Pepper and David Normoyle. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/a-joyful-noise-gospel-dinner-with-soulist-garland-nelson-friends-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/2025/02/https-cdn.evbuc_.com-images-923512303-286549551536-1-original.20241226-215639-2.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050946 CREATED:20250228T181004Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250228T181005Z UID:10003562-1745762400-1745769600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Online School of Music: Gretchen Peters Songwriting Intensive DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nA two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters \n \nFor over two decades\, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell\, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet\,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James\, Bonnie Raitt\, The Neville Brothers\, Patty Loveless\, George Strait\, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys\, a Golden Globe\, and numerous other awards. \n \nPart One: Sundays April 27 – May 18\, 2025 \n \nPart Two: Sundays June 8\, 15\, 22\, 29\, 2025 \n \nOn ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT \n \n( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two) \n \nEach class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours. \n \nOne of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling\, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say\, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth\, but not necessarily the facts. \n \nIn this workshop\, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft\, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are\, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen \n \nClass Description \n \nThis 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts. \n \nIn Part One\, we’ll focus on: \n \n\nWriting authentically: how to build the back story for your characters\nUsing detail and imagery in your lyrics\nUsing your subconscious as your compass\nHow to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing room\nFinding and fine-tuning your melody and chords\nStructure: song forms and rhyme schemes\n\nIn Part Two\, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week\, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit\, including: \n \n\nFocusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmically\nHow to access your subconscious during the writing process\nHow verse order can change everything\nWhy it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”\nHow to edit your song\, and what to look out for in the editing process\nWhat to do when you’re stuck\nSongwriting prompts\nThe care and feeding of your creative self\n\nBring to our first class \n \nPen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes \n \nAn open heart and mind \n \nHow to prepare: \n \nIn addition\, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee\, before breakfast\, before anything. Do not edit\, cross out\, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think\, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form\, rhyme\, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/online-school-of-music-gretchen-peters-songwriting-intensive/2025-04-27/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-19.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050946 CREATED:20250305T015556Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T021102Z UID:10003601-1745866800-1745874000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nSIGN 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.\nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.\nSign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /\nSign up is first come first serve\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.\nFull table service (see menu). No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.\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: Reese @caffelena.org \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-12/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250429T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250429T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050946 CREATED:20250313T152620Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T152622Z UID:10003641-1745953200-1745960400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:The Michael Mills Magic Show DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nHe's back! After a four-month run of shows at Caffe Lena in 2024\, magician Mills returns with an all-new show featuring jaw-dropping surprises\, quick wit\, and an unforgettable good time. \n \nMichael’s performance is playful\, surprising\, and packed with moments that will leave you laughing\, amazed\, and wondering if you can trust your own eyes. \n \nThis show is the perfect way to hit pause on life's to-do list and just have a great time. Bring your curiosity—and someone to share the 'Did that really just happen?!' moments with! \n \nRecommended for ages 14+ \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/the-michael-mills-magic-show-2/ 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/2025/03/Eventbrite-Banners-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050947 CREATED:20250211T205748Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T144443Z UID:10003451-1746023400-1746034200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:10 Week Spring After School Folk Ensembles DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nThrough our after school program\, children aged 7 – 14 can study fiddle\, guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, tin whistle\, mandolin\, bass\, percussion and more. Each session consists of 10 weekly 45 minute lessons. Teachers Oona Grady and James Gascoyne will be leading the students in an ensemble format. Ensemble instills the camaraderie that is at the center of the Folk tradition. Ensemble encourages learning to hear and listen musically\, and enables students to experience the interdependence of each note and strum within the group.  \n \nClasses start 2:45pm\, 3:40pm and 4:25pm. \n \n#youthclass \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/10-week-spring-after-school-folk-ensembles-begins/2025-04-30/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-11.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T213000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050947 CREATED:20250226T043749Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T151948Z UID:10003546-1746041400-1746048600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Lena Go Round-Songwriters Showcase Hosted by Erin Harkes DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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\nFor 65 years\, Caffè Lena has been a place where great artists get their start—a stage where music is more than just sound; it’s stories\, community\, and discovery. The Lena Go Round continues that tradition\, offering a monthly showcase of rising songwriting talent\, curated and hosted by powerhouse musician\, comedian\, entrepreneur\, and all around powerhouse\, Erin Harkes. \n \nWhat makes Lena Go Round special? \n \n\nIt is a curated lineup of the best up-and-coming songwriters—handpicked to deliver unforgettable performances\nIt is a true “in the round” experience—where songwriters take turns sharing their music and stories\, creating an intimate and inspiring atmosphere\nIt is a direct link to Caffè Lena’s legacy—this stage launched careers\, and Lena Go Round continues to nurture the next generation of folk\, Americana\, and indie artists\n\nThe lineup for April is Deanna DeLuke\, Matt Griffin\, Zan Strumfeld\, and Erin! You will always hear something fresh\, moving\, and unforgettable. Whether you're a lifelong folk fan or just love discovering the next big thing\, Lena Go Round is the place to be. \n \nSpecial Congratulations to Zan Strumfield for winning two Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards< "The Eddies"! Zan won for Americana Artist of the Year and Album of the Year! \n \nCome be part of a Capital District must-see event\, where the best of the best take the stage before the world catches on. \n \nSAMPLE SONG  \n \nStream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/lena-go-round-songwriters-showcase-hosted-by-erin-harkes-3/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/unnamed-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250501T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250501T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050947 CREATED:20250131T171445Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T164636Z UID:10003664-1746090000-1746100800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson DESCRIPTION:American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk \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\nGuitar Workshop \n \nLevel 1 and 2 \n \nCost $195 for all 10 sessions. Drop ins $25/per session if space allows \n \nThis class will focus on learning basic skills in order to play songs alone or with other players. Each week we will focus on learning specific skills that players can build on to gain confidence while playing. We will also work on playing different styles of music and transposing pieces into various keys. The goal is to provide players information and skills so they are comfortable in various musical environments.  \n \nTopics Include: \n \nOpen position chords and how they are related to each other \n \nMoving from chord to chord smoothly and in time \n \nRhythm and strumming techniques \n \nSingle note play: Pentatonic scale\, lead-ins and fills \n \nMovable chord shapes \n \nLearning new songs \n \nPlaying and performing with other musicians \n \nBruce Thompson teaches guitar workshops and private lessons at the Caffe. Bruce started playing music in elementary school\, first on violin and later on guitar and dobro. Influenced by acoustic folk and bluegrass and a love for improvisation\, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Composition at the Berklee College of Music and played various music styles in the Boston area for ten years. After moving to Saratoga County\, NY he raised a family and made music at community\, family\, and school events. He currently plays in the band Uken Brew and is a fixture in the capital district bluegrass community. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Streaming\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 Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 7 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson\n\n Bluegrass Instructional Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 9 • 9 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/guitar-workshop-level-1-with-bruce-thompson/2025-05-01/ 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/2025/01/december-6-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250501T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250501T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T050947 CREATED:20250206T145417Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T162945Z UID:10003328-1746104400-1746111600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Bluegrass Instructional Workshop \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 \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 \n \n Price\n \n General\n $195.00\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 Playwright’s Jam\n\n Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 5 • 1:30 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Mandolin Vitamins – Tunes\, Techniques and Ensemble Music\n\n Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 6 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Folk Club Kids\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Apr 8 • 10:30 AM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-4/2025-05-01/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR