Caffè Lena

Roomful of Blues
2026-04-18 17:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots

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Horn-Powered. House-Rocking. Pure Joy. “Brawny shuffles, swinging horns, searing guitar, passionate vocals and balls-to-the-wall enthusiasm.” – Living Blues “High-voltage swingin’ jump blues and R&B.” – USA Today For more than 55 years, Roomful of Blues has been one of the most electrifying forces in American blues and R&B. Hailed by DownBeat as “in a class by themselves” and dubbed “the best little big band in the blues” by Blues Music Magazine, this world-renowned, horn-powered ensemble delivers jubilant, foot-stomping performances that leave audiences smiling, dancing, and wanting more. Led for the past 25 years by master guitarist Chris Vachon, Roomful of Blues brings together swinging horns, searing guitar, soulful vocals, and impeccable musicianship in a bone-shaking mix of original songs and choice covers—ranging from jump, swing, and proto rock ’n’ roll to funky, contemporary blues. Their larger-than-life sound has earned them five GRAMMY® nominations, seven Blues Music Awards, and two DownBeat International Critics’ Poll awards for Best Blues Band. The band’s signature horn section—anchored by longtime saxophonist Rich Lataille, a member since 1970—remains a cornerstone of their sound, evoking both the honking sax of early rock ’n’ roll and the cool elegance of big-band swing. Today’s lineup sounds as fresh and powerful as ever, with dynamic new vocalist D.D. Bastos adding a soulful, joyful dimension to Roomful’s timeless style. From their beginnings in 1967 as a group of Rhode Island teenagers obsessed with Chicago blues, to international touring across 22 countries, to acclaimed recordings on Alligator Records, Roomful of Blues has built a legacy rooted in passion, evolution, and pure fun. Legends from B.B. King and Otis Rush to Eric Clapton and Carlos Santana have shared stages with them, and fans around the globe continue to line up for their thunderous live shows. SAMPLE SONG As guitarist Chris Vachon puts it: “Playing this music is an immense amount of fun for us. And it’s just as much fun for our audience.” If you caught their last sold-out appearances at Caffè Lena, you already know: Roomful of Blues doesn’t just play the blues—they bring the party. And if this is your first time, get ready for a night of hand-clapping, seat-swaying, joy-filled blues in our listening room. Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. 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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$45.55

General
$49.89

Child or Student
$24.94

inclusive of fees

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Roomful of Blues
2026-04-18 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Jazz Multi-act Program Other

Share:

Horn-Powered. House-Rocking. Pure Joy. “Brawny shuffles, swinging horns, searing guitar, passionate vocals and balls-to-the-wall enthusiasm.” – Living Blues “High-voltage swingin’ jump blues and R&B.” – USA Today For more than 55 years, Roomful of Blues has been one of the most electrifying forces in American blues and R&B. Hailed by DownBeat as “in a class by themselves” and dubbed “the best little big band in the blues” by Blues Music Magazine, this world-renowned, horn-powered ensemble delivers jubilant, foot-stomping performances that leave audiences smiling, dancing, and wanting more. Led for the past 25 years by master guitarist Chris Vachon, Roomful of Blues brings together swinging horns, searing guitar, soulful vocals, and impeccable musicianship in a bone-shaking mix of original songs and choice covers—ranging from jump, swing, and proto rock ’n’ roll to funky, contemporary blues. Their larger-than-life sound has earned them five GRAMMY® nominations, seven Blues Music Awards, and two DownBeat International Critics’ Poll awards for Best Blues Band. The band’s signature horn section—anchored by longtime saxophonist Rich Lataille, a member since 1970—remains a cornerstone of their sound, evoking both the honking sax of early rock ’n’ roll and the cool elegance of big-band swing. Today’s lineup sounds as fresh and powerful as ever, with dynamic new vocalist D.D. Bastos adding a soulful, joyful dimension to Roomful’s timeless style. From their beginnings in 1967 as a group of Rhode Island teenagers obsessed with Chicago blues, to international touring across 22 countries, to acclaimed recordings on Alligator Records, Roomful of Blues has built a legacy rooted in passion, evolution, and pure fun. Legends from B.B. King and Otis Rush to Eric Clapton and Carlos Santana have shared stages with them, and fans around the globe continue to line up for their thunderous live shows. As guitarist Chris Vachon puts it: “Playing this music is an immense amount of fun for us. And it’s just as much fun for our audience.” If you caught their sold-out last appearance at Caffè Lena, you already know: Roomful of Blues doesn’t just play the blues—they bring the party. And if this is your first time, get ready for a night of hand-clapping, seat-swaying, joy-filled blues in our listening room. Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. 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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 11:30 am

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ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters
2026-04-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Online, Streaming On Zoom
Other

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A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters

For over two decades, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, The Neville Brothers, Patty Loveless, George Strait, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys, a Golden Globe, and numerous other awards.

Part One: Sundays March 1 – 22, 2025

Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3, 2025

On ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT

( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two)

Each class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours.

One of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth, but not necessarily the facts.

In this workshop, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen

Class Description

This 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts.

In Part One, we’ll focus on:

Writing authentically: how to build the back story for your characters
Using detail and imagery in your lyrics
Using your subconscious as your compass
How to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing room
Finding and fine-tuning your melody and chords
Structure: song forms and rhyme schemes

In Part Two, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit, including:

Focusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmically
How to access your subconscious during the writing process
How verse order can change everything
Why it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”
How to edit your song, and what to look out for in the editing process
What to do when you’re stuck
Songwriting prompts
The care and feeding of your creative self

Bring to our first class

Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes

An open heart and mind

How to prepare:

In addition, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee, before breakfast, before anything. Do not edit, cross out, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form, rhyme, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-04-22 14:30 - 17:30, 2026-04-29 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Poetry

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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

17 weeks starting January 28th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.

Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music, including singing, exploring various string instruments, music theory basics, rhythm exercises, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch, confidence in performance practice, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, of course!).

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation.

Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs.

Explore string instruments and singing, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, bass, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons).

Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice.

Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships.

Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org

After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all!

Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18, 4/8]

(Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA)

End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm

Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time.

Meet the instructors:

James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs, NY. Originally from Louisville, KY, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups, at times performing on bass, guitar, drums, and vocals, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo, Drank The Gold, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs, as well as original compositions and arrangements, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music, Dance Flurry Festival, GrassRoots Culture Camp, and Winter Village Music Camp.

Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music, folk songs, and original compositions, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls, Folk Club Kids, Carolyn Shapiro, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca, NY, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle, she began performing with her family band as a teenager, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do, Dr. Dog), manages a private music teaching studio, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs, including GrassRoots Culture Camp, the Flurry Festival, Winter Village Music Camp, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.

#youthclass

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-04-23 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-04-30 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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All are Welcome!
WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS,
AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!

This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation!

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

Our jams are all about sharing songs, making new friends, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music.

ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic.

Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!

What is a Slow Jam?

It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G, A, D, C major, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”, “e”, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

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$5.00

Child or Student
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Leslie Mendelson
2026-04-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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With her enchanted voice and emotionally resonant songwriting, Leslie Mendelson has earned the admiration of devoted fans and legendary peers alike. Jackson Browne praises her work as “timeless,” citing echoes of Burt Bacharach and Carole King, while Jakob Dylan of The Wallflowers notes, “Voices like Leslie’s can get away with almost anything… she has few, if any, peers.”

A Grammy Award–nominated artist, Leslie’s music blends folk-rock, pop, and Americana, evoking the spirit of Laurel Canyon with the sharp wit and lived-in grit of Brooklyn, her home for more than two decades.

“This record (After The Party) is an emotional journey,” Mendelson shares. “There are moments of fun where you can turn it up loud and sing along, and moments of reflection. I hope people can take that journey with me

Leslie’s most recent album, After The Party, is a joyful and expansive collection born from collaboration and creative renewal. The album was recorded at Grove Masters, the famed studio owned by Jackson Browne, and produced by an extraordinary trio: the legendary Peter Asher (James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt), in-demand producer Tyler Chester (Madison Cunningham, Sara Bareilles, Sara Watkins), and Mendelson’s longtime collaborator, three-time Grammy winner Steve McEwan.

Joined by an all-star band—including guitarists Waddy Wachtel and John Jorgenson, bassists Leland Sklar and Derrick Anderson, and drummers Jim Keltner and Abe Rounds, Leslie crafted a record that balances sophistication with soul, nostalgia with immediacy.

Producer Peter Asher sums it up best: “Leslie is one of these very rare singers who can combine elegant precision with deep emotional resonance. She has a remarkable voice—and one we need to hear.”

SAMPLE SONG

Join us at Caffè Lena for an intimate evening of song and story with an artist whose voice and writing continue to move listeners deeply.

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. 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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters
2026-04-26 14:00 - 16:00 | Online, Streaming On Zoom
American Roots Jazz Multi-act Program Other

Share:

A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters

For over two decades, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, The Neville Brothers, Patty Loveless, George Strait, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys, a Golden Globe, and numerous other awards.

Part One: Sundays March 1 – 22, 2025

Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3, 2025

On ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT

( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two)

Each class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours.

One of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth, but not necessarily the facts.

In this workshop, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen

Class Description

This 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts.

In Part One, we’ll focus on:

Writing authentically: how to build the back story for your characters
Using detail and imagery in your lyrics
Using your subconscious as your compass
How to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing room
Finding and fine-tuning your melody and chords
Structure: song forms and rhyme schemes

In Part Two, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit, including:

Focusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmically
How to access your subconscious during the writing process
How verse order can change everything
Why it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”
How to edit your song, and what to look out for in the editing process
What to do when you’re stuck
Songwriting prompts
The care and feeding of your creative self

Bring to our first class

Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes

An open heart and mind

How to prepare:

In addition, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee, before breakfast, before anything. Do not edit, cross out, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form, rhyme, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only

Doors Open
Doors Open: 11:30 am

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The Steel Wheels
2026-04-28 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Other

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After twenty years of making music together, The Steel Wheels are still growing, still pushing, and still finding new ground. This summer, the Virginia based band marks that milestone with their ninth studio album, The Steel Wheels, a record that captures both their hard earned musical maturity and their restless sense of adventure.

Recorded live in the studio with producer D. James Goodwin, the album reflects the way this band has always worked best, listening closely, responding in real time, and letting songs come alive together in the room. The result moves effortlessly between harmony rich acoustic roots and the fuller folk rock sound the band has grown into over two decades, balancing joy, humor, and energy with moments of deep reflection and tenderness.

With thoughtful songwriting from Trent Wagler and the unmistakable interplay of Eric Brubaker, Jay Lapp, Kevin Garcia, and Jeremy Darrow, these songs explore connection, attention, and what truly matters beneath the noise of daily life. The Steel Wheels remain a band defined by trust, curiosity, and a deep commitment to the music and to one another.

SAMPLE SONG

Caffè Lena is proud to welcome The Steel Wheels for an evening of beautifully crafted songs, shared stories, and the rare chemistry that only comes from years spent making music side by side.

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. 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.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Feb 24 • 7 PM

Livingston Taylor
2026-05-02 16:00 - 18:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Born in Boston and raised in North Carolina, Livingston is the fourth child in a deeply musical family that includes Alex, James, Kate, and Hugh Taylor. He picked up his first guitar at age 13 and recorded his first album at just 18, launching a career defined by thoughtful songwriting, stylistic range, and an easy, welcoming stage presence.

From Top 40 hits like “I Will Be in Love with You” and “I’ll Come Running,” to beloved songs such as “I Can Dream of You” and “Boatman” (both recorded by his brother James), Livingston’s catalog is rich with well-crafted, introspective songs that resonate across generations. His repertoire moves effortlessly between folk, pop, jazz, gospel, and Broadway standards, blending storytelling, warmth, and musical depth.

A lifelong road warrior, Livingston has shared stages with artists including Joni Mitchell, Linda Ronstadt, Fleetwood Mac, Jimmy Buffett, and Jethro Tull, and continues to tour internationally. His shows are peppered with personal stories, humor, and the kind of relaxed authenticity that makes every audience feel like they’re in on the conversation.

In addition to performing, Livingston is a full professor at Berklee College of Music, where he has taught his celebrated Stage Performance course since 1989. His book Stage Performance extends those lessons to artists everywhere, reflecting a career devoted not only to music, but to mentoring the next generation.

SAMPLE SONG

In recognition of his five decades of music-making, January 18, 2017 was officially declared “Livingston Taylor Day”by the City of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

We’re thrilled to welcome Livingston Taylor back to Caffè Lena for two intimate shows on Friday, May 2. Choose your show (or come to both!)—and settle in for an evening of songs, stories, and masterful musicianship from one of folk music’s most enduring voices.

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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Livingston Taylor
2026-05-02 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Jazz Multi-act Program Other

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Born in Boston and raised in North Carolina, Livingston is the fourth child in a deeply musical family that includes Alex, James, Kate, and Hugh Taylor. He picked up his first guitar at age 13 and recorded his first album at just 18, launching a career defined by thoughtful songwriting, stylistic range, and an easy, welcoming stage presence.

From Top 40 hits like “I Will Be in Love with You” and “I’ll Come Running,” to beloved songs such as “I Can Dream of You” and “Boatman” (both recorded by his brother James), Livingston’s catalog is rich with well-crafted, introspective songs that resonate across generations. His repertoire moves effortlessly between folk, pop, jazz, gospel, and Broadway standards, blending storytelling, warmth, and musical depth.

A lifelong road warrior, Livingston has shared stages with artists including Joni Mitchell, Linda Ronstadt, Fleetwood Mac, Jimmy Buffett, and Jethro Tull, and continues to tour internationally. His shows are peppered with personal stories, humor, and the kind of relaxed authenticity that makes every audience feel like they’re in on the conversation.

In addition to performing, Livingston is a full professor at Berklee College of Music, where he has taught his celebrated Stage Performance course since 1989. His book Stage Performance extends those lessons to artists everywhere, reflecting a career devoted not only to music, but to mentoring the next generation.

SAMPLE SONG

In recognition of his five decades of music-making, January 18, 2017 was officially declared “Livingston Taylor Day”by the City of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

We’re thrilled to welcome Livingston Taylor back to Caffè Lena for two intimate shows on Friday, May 2. Choose your show (or come to both!)—and settle in for an evening of songs, stories, and masterful musicianship from one of folk music’s most enduring voices.

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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 11:30 am

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Playwright's Jam
2026-05-03 13:30 - 16:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Other

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Looking for an opportunity to connect with local writers, actors, and directors? Want to share a theater piece you’re writing?

Join us for the 1st Sunday monthly Playwright’s Jams!

A monthly meetup hosted by Caffe Lena for local writers, actors & directors

The First Sunday of the Month 1:30pm- 4:00pm

Doors open at 1:00; Casting begins at 1:15pm and Readings start at 1:30pm!

Bring your great ideas, your new scripts, your edits and your friends for an inspiring afternoon fo theater in the making.

Playwrights should bring a highlighted script for each of their actors and one extra for stage directions
Bring 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!).
Each 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.
This event will be co-hosted by Michael Wells-Oakes and Vivian Nesbitt
Playwright 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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Feb 24 • 7 PM

ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters
2026-05-03 14:00 - 16:00 | Online, Streaming On Zoom
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Poetry

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A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters

For over two decades, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, The Neville Brothers, Patty Loveless, George Strait, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys, a Golden Globe, and numerous other awards.

Part One: Sundays March 1 – 22, 2025

Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3, 2025

On ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT

( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two)

Each class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours.

One of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth, but not necessarily the facts.

In this workshop, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen

Class Description

This 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts.

In Part One, we’ll focus on:

Writing authentically: how to build the back story for your characters
Using detail and imagery in your lyrics
Using your subconscious as your compass
How to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing room
Finding and fine-tuning your melody and chords
Structure: song forms and rhyme schemes

In Part Two, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit, including:

Focusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmically
How to access your subconscious during the writing process
How verse order can change everything
Why it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”
How to edit your song, and what to look out for in the editing process
What to do when you’re stuck
Songwriting prompts
The care and feeding of your creative self

Bring to our first class

Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes

An open heart and mind

How to prepare:

In addition, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee, before breakfast, before anything. Do not edit, cross out, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form, rhyme, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-05-06 14:30 - 17:30, 2026-05-20 14:30 - 17:30, 2026-05-27 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

17 weeks starting January 28th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.

Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music, including singing, exploring various string instruments, music theory basics, rhythm exercises, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch, confidence in performance practice, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, of course!).

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation.

Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs.

Explore string instruments and singing, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, bass, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons).

Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice.

Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships.

Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org

After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all!

Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18, 4/8]

(Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA)

End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm

Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time.

Meet the instructors:

James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs, NY. Originally from Louisville, KY, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups, at times performing on bass, guitar, drums, and vocals, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo, Drank The Gold, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs, as well as original compositions and arrangements, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music, Dance Flurry Festival, GrassRoots Culture Camp, and Winter Village Music Camp.

Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music, folk songs, and original compositions, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls, Folk Club Kids, Carolyn Shapiro, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca, NY, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle, she began performing with her family band as a teenager, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do, Dr. Dog), manages a private music teaching studio, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs, including GrassRoots Culture Camp, the Flurry Festival, Winter Village Music Camp, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.

#youthclass

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-05-07 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-05-28 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

Share:

All are Welcome!
WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS,
AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!

This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation!

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

Our jams are all about sharing songs, making new friends, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music.

ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic.

Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!

What is a Slow Jam?

It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G, A, D, C major, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”, “e”, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Songwriting Club
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Jazz Multi-act Program Other

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I'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.

January 10th

10am – 12pm

$5 donation

cookies and coffee by donation

Doors Open
Doors Open: 11:30 am

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-05-13 14:30 - 17:30, 2026-06-03 17:30 - 18:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Other

Share:

After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

17 weeks starting January 28th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.

Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music, including singing, exploring various string instruments, music theory basics, rhythm exercises, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch, confidence in performance practice, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, of course!).

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation.

Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs.

Explore string instruments and singing, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, bass, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons).

Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice.

Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships.

Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org

After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all!

Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18, 4/8]

(Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA)

End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm

Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time.

Meet the instructors:

James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs, NY. Originally from Louisville, KY, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups, at times performing on bass, guitar, drums, and vocals, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo, Drank The Gold, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs, as well as original compositions and arrangements, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music, Dance Flurry Festival, GrassRoots Culture Camp, and Winter Village Music Camp.

Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music, folk songs, and original compositions, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls, Folk Club Kids, Carolyn Shapiro, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca, NY, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle, she began performing with her family band as a teenager, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do, Dr. Dog), manages a private music teaching studio, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs, including GrassRoots Culture Camp, the Flurry Festival, Winter Village Music Camp, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.

#youthclass

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour

American Roots Jazz Multi-act Program Other

event

Jan 30 • 12 PM

Caffè Lena

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Other Rock

event

Feb 17 • 7:30 PM

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Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Poetry

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Feb 24 • 7 PM

School of Music Slow Jam
2026-05-14 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-04 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Poetry

Share:

All are Welcome!
WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS,
AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!

This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation!

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

Our jams are all about sharing songs, making new friends, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music.

ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic.

Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!

What is a Slow Jam?

It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G, A, D, C major, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”, “e”, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Jan 19 • 7 PM

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Other

event

Jan 20 • 7 PM

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Jan 26 • 7 PM

Bluegrass Jam
2026-05-20 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

Share:

All are welcome to join the circle for an evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. Red Spruce will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!!

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Jan 19 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Jan 26 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour

American Roots Jazz Multi-act Program Other

event

Jan 30 • 12 PM

School of Music Slow Jam
2026-05-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Jazz Multi-act Program Other

Share:

All are Welcome!
WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS,
AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!

This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation!

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

Our jams are all about sharing songs, making new friends, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music.

ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic.

Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!

What is a Slow Jam?

It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G, A, D, C major, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”, “e”, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 11:30 am

Get Tickets

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Hubby Jenkins of Carolina Chocolate Drops

American Roots

event

Sold Out

Jan 17 • 8 PM

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Jan 20 • 7 PM

Sawyer Fredericks
2026-05-22 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Other

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Sawyer Fredericks is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter from a small family farm in upstate New York, known for his emotive vocals, honest storytelling, and raw, roots-driven sound. At just 16, he gained national attention as the winner of Season 8 of The Voice, captivating millions with his soulful interpretations and grounded presence. Since then, Sawyer has carved his own artistic path, choosing independence and creative freedom over industry expectations.

His debut album A Good Storm established him as a rising force, while his self-released albums Hide Your Ghost and Flowers For You deepened his artistic identity, earning critical acclaim and top honors at the Independent Music Awards. Songs like “Born” and “Amen” resonated far beyond the folk world, landing on SiriusXM, curated folk playlists, and playlists celebrating authentic modern songwriting.

In 2025, Sawyer released No Need To Wonder, a folk-rock album shaped by themes of home, environmental responsibility, personal reflection, and the ties that bind us to the land and to one another. The work reflects his lived experience — rooted, introspective, and deeply connected to nature.

SAMPLE SONG

Whether performing solo or with his band, Sawyer invites audiences into an intimate musical space where vulnerability, story, and melody become shared ground.

Praise for Sawyer Fredericks:

“Fredericks has put on full display his talents, from songwriting to singing and a command of his instrument that continues to grow.” – The Daily Gazette

“I’m convinced he would’ve had a place in The Band if they ever needed a distinctive rural voice.” – Americana Highways

Expect a performance that’s stirring, soulful, and full of heart.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Live stream 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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
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Sawyer Fredericks
2026-05-23 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Poetry

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Sawyer Fredericks is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter from a small family farm in upstate New York, known for his emotive vocals, honest storytelling, and raw, roots-driven sound. At just 16, he gained national attention as the winner of Season 8 of The Voice, captivating millions with his soulful interpretations and grounded presence. Since then, Sawyer has carved his own artistic path, choosing independence and creative freedom over industry expectations.

His debut album A Good Storm established him as a rising force, while his self-released albums Hide Your Ghost and Flowers For You deepened his artistic identity, earning critical acclaim and top honors at the Independent Music Awards. Songs like “Born” and “Amen” resonated far beyond the folk world, landing on SiriusXM, curated folk playlists, and playlists celebrating authentic modern songwriting.

In 2025, Sawyer released No Need To Wonder, a folk-rock album shaped by themes of home, environmental responsibility, personal reflection, and the ties that bind us to the land and to one another. The work reflects his lived experience — rooted, introspective, and deeply connected to nature.

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Whether performing solo or with his band, Sawyer invites audiences into an intimate musical space where vulnerability, story, and melody become shared ground.

Praise for Sawyer Fredericks:

“Fredericks has put on full display his talents, from songwriting to singing and a command of his instrument that continues to grow.” – The Daily Gazette

“I’m convinced he would’ve had a place in The Band if they ever needed a distinctive rural voice.” – Americana Highways

Expect a performance that’s stirring, soulful, and full of heart.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Live stream 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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-06-03 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Jazz Multi-act Program Other

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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

17 weeks starting January 28th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.

Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music, including singing, exploring various string instruments, music theory basics, rhythm exercises, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch, confidence in performance practice, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, of course!).

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation.

Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs.

Explore string instruments and singing, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, bass, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons).

Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice.

Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships.

Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org

After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all!

Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18, 4/8]

(Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA)

End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm

Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time.

Meet the instructors:

James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs, NY. Originally from Louisville, KY, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups, at times performing on bass, guitar, drums, and vocals, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo, Drank The Gold, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs, as well as original compositions and arrangements, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music, Dance Flurry Festival, GrassRoots Culture Camp, and Winter Village Music Camp.

Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music, folk songs, and original compositions, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls, Folk Club Kids, Carolyn Shapiro, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca, NY, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle, she began performing with her family band as a teenager, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do, Dr. Dog), manages a private music teaching studio, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs, including GrassRoots Culture Camp, the Flurry Festival, Winter Village Music Camp, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.

#youthclass

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Doors Open: 11:30 am

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Adam Ezra Group
2026-06-06 16:00 - 18:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Prepare for an evening of music that’s more than just a performance—Adam Ezra Group brings connection, community, and heart to every note they play. Known for their powerful blend of Americana, activism, and storytelling, this band has carved out a unique space in the music world, winning over fans one show at a time.

Led by the dynamic and passionate Adam Ezra, the group’s journey is as inspiring as their music. With no traditional industry backing, they’ve built their reputation through tireless touring and grassroots connections, earning accolades like the New England Music Award’s Americana Act of the Year (2023). From intimate living room concerts to festival stages, their commitment to creating meaningful experiences for their audience is unmatched.

The band’s sound is a captivating mix of heartfelt lyrics, rich fiddle melodies from Corinna Smith, driving rhythms from Alex Martin on percussion, and the deep grooves of Poche Ponce on bass. Their performances are deeply personal, often featuring songs co-created with their fan community, reflecting the band’s ethos of inclusivity and shared purpose.

With a setlist that ranges from soul-stirring ballads to foot-stomping anthems, an Adam Ezra Group show is a celebration of music’s power to connect and uplift. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, this is a show that will leave you inspired.

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Join us at Caffè Lena for an evening of unforgettable music and connection with one of today’s most compelling bands.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. 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.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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