BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Caffè Lena - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.caffelena.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Caffè Lena REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260914T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260914T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006383-1789412400-1789419600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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 OPEN MIC NIGHT DOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM Play 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.  OUR HOSTS First Monday – Rick Bolton Second Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  Third Monday – Ray Pashoukos Fourth Monday – Kate Blain  HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: Every Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / Sign up is first come first serve You 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. Coffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. Play 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.  CONTACT US If you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $120.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-09-14/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T110000 DTSTAMP:20260125T033938Z CREATED:20260121T200736Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T033938Z UID:10006449-1789554600-1789556400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Folk Club Kids DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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 \nJoin Dan Berggren\, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster 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 Andy and Bill Spence. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/folk-club-kids-4/2026-09-16/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-40.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T210000 DTSTAMP:20250211T174321Z CREATED:20250205T223507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T174321Z UID:10006253-1789585200-1789592400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Bluegrass Jam DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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 Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/bluegrass-jam/2026-09-16/ 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:20260917T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260917T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005931-1789650000-1789657200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. \n \nRed Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-09-17/ 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/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260918T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260918T153000 DTSTAMP:20260710T173626Z CREATED:20260710T172053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T173626Z UID:10006422-1789740000-1789745400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Singing with Girl Blue DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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\nSinging with Girl Blue \n \nFridays Sept 18 – Oct 9 \n \n2 pm – 3 pm \n \n$120 \n \nSpend four weeks with Girl Blue learning how to become more connected\, comfortable\, and confident in your relationship with your singing voice. Enjoy meditating\, breathing\, learning and singing with others as our sessions culminate in a group recording of a beautiful original song by the great Dan Berggren. A wonderful and safe place to get into your body and find a deeper connection to your own voice. \n \nArielle Woodul (Girl Blue) is a local singer and songwriter who has been performing around the area and throughout the country for years. She has been the recipient of nine Thomas Edison Music Awards\, and has had her songs placed in national and international commercials and television shows. She is also a vocalist who has been trained in opera and classical singing as well as pop and jazz. She has taught many students over the years and is certified in Vocal Health First Aid. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/singing-with-girl-blue/2026-09-18/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-8.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260921T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260921T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006385-1790017200-1790024400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-09-21/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260923T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260923T110000 DTSTAMP:20260125T033938Z CREATED:20260121T200736Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T033938Z UID:10006450-1790159400-1790161200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Folk Club Kids DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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 \nJoin Dan Berggren\, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster 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 Andy and Bill Spence. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/folk-club-kids-4/2026-09-23/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-40.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260924T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260924T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005932-1790254800-1790262000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. \n \nRed Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-09-24/ 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/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260925T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260925T153000 DTSTAMP:20260710T173626Z CREATED:20260710T172053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T173626Z UID:10006423-1790344800-1790350200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Singing with Girl Blue DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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\nSinging with Girl Blue \n \nFridays Sept 18 – Oct 9 \n \n2 pm – 3 pm \n \n$120 \n \nSpend four weeks with Girl Blue learning how to become more connected\, comfortable\, and confident in your relationship with your singing voice. Enjoy meditating\, breathing\, learning and singing with others as our sessions culminate in a group recording of a beautiful original song by the great Dan Berggren. A wonderful and safe place to get into your body and find a deeper connection to your own voice. \n \nArielle Woodul (Girl Blue) is a local singer and songwriter who has been performing around the area and throughout the country for years. She has been the recipient of nine Thomas Edison Music Awards\, and has had her songs placed in national and international commercials and television shows. She is also a vocalist who has been trained in opera and classical singing as well as pop and jazz. She has taught many students over the years and is certified in Vocal Health First Aid. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/singing-with-girl-blue/2026-09-25/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-8.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260928T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260928T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006384-1790622000-1790629200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-09-28/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260930T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260930T110000 DTSTAMP:20260125T033938Z CREATED:20260121T200736Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T033938Z UID:10006451-1790764200-1790766000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Folk Club Kids DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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 \nJoin Dan Berggren\, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster 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 Andy and Bill Spence. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/folk-club-kids-4/2026-09-30/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-40.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260930T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260930T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006404-1790778600-1790789400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! \n \nStudents are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. \n \nOona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  \n \n#youthclass \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-09-30/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261001T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261001T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005933-1790859600-1790866800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. \n \nRed Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-10-01/ 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/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261002T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261002T153000 DTSTAMP:20260710T173626Z CREATED:20260710T172053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T173626Z UID:10006424-1790949600-1790955000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Singing with Girl Blue DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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\nSinging with Girl Blue \n \nFridays Sept 18 – Oct 9 \n \n2 pm – 3 pm \n \n$120 \n \nSpend four weeks with Girl Blue learning how to become more connected\, comfortable\, and confident in your relationship with your singing voice. Enjoy meditating\, breathing\, learning and singing with others as our sessions culminate in a group recording of a beautiful original song by the great Dan Berggren. A wonderful and safe place to get into your body and find a deeper connection to your own voice. \n \nArielle Woodul (Girl Blue) is a local singer and songwriter who has been performing around the area and throughout the country for years. She has been the recipient of nine Thomas Edison Music Awards\, and has had her songs placed in national and international commercials and television shows. She is also a vocalist who has been trained in opera and classical singing as well as pop and jazz. She has taught many students over the years and is certified in Vocal Health First Aid. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/singing-with-girl-blue/2026-10-02/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-8.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261004T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261004T160000 DTSTAMP:20260102T153426Z CREATED:20260102T151922Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T153426Z UID:10005876-1791120600-1791129600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Playwright's Jam DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nLooking for an opportunity to connect with local writers\, actors\, and directors? Want to share a theater piece you’re writing? \n \nJoin us for the 1st Sunday monthly Playwright’s Jams! \n \nA monthly meetup hosted by Caffe Lena for local writers\, actors & directors \n \nThe First Sunday of the Month 1:30pm- 4:00pm \n \nDoors open at 1:00; Casting begins at 1:15pm and Readings start at 1:30pm! \n \nBring your great ideas\, your new scripts\, your edits and your friends for an inspiring afternoon fo theater in the making. \n \n\nPlaywrights should bring a highlighted script for each of their actors and one extra for stage directions\nBring a short scene (7-8 minutes). Cast your actors from the audience\, including your fellow playwrights. Give them brief directions and then put them on stage to read your script. We’ll go around the room after the reading and let everyone give a “popcorn” reaction (one word!).\nEach meeting will include 6 or 7 scenes selected at random from those submitted. After the readings we’ll have time to hang out and get acquainted.  \nThis event will be co-hosted by Michael Wells-Oakes and Vivian Nesbitt\nPlaywright Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards. \n\n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/playwrights-jam-18/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Playwright39s-Jam-graphic-940-x-470-px-9.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261005T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261005T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006386-1791226800-1791234000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-10-05/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T110000 DTSTAMP:20260125T033938Z CREATED:20260121T200736Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T033938Z UID:10006452-1791369000-1791370800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Folk Club Kids DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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 \nJoin Dan Berggren\, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster 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 Andy and Bill Spence. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/folk-club-kids-4/2026-10-07/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-40.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006405-1791383400-1791394200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! \n \nStudents are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. \n \nOona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  \n \n#youthclass \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-10-07/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T200000 DTSTAMP:20260708T162703Z CREATED:20260706T161011Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260708T162703Z UID:10006415-1791396000-1791403200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Forget Everything You Know and Remember All the Things You Are DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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\nForget Everything You Know and Remember All the Things You Are  \n \nWednesdays in October \n \n6 pm – 8 pm \n \n$195 \n \nWe live in a culture that relentlessly asks us to be optimized\, efficient\, and productive. In this constant drive toward "betterment\," we often lose touch with the parts of ourselves that exist simply to experience\, to wonder\, and to play. This four-week gathering is a refusal of that pressure. It is a space designed for creative reclamation: a place to step out of the role of the "performer" and back into the rhythm of your own humanity.  \n \nThis is not a course about mastering a skill; it is a practice of being.   \n \nRather than focusing on the finished product\, we turn our attention to the process: the texture of a sound\, the weight of a found object\, the breath in the body\, and the space between us. We explore the tension between intention and surrender\, learning how to allow creativity to move through us without the need to make it "useful" or "perfect." Through somatic awareness\, sound exploration\, and the use of found materials\, we practice the art of showing up exactly as we are.  \n \nYou are invited to bring whatever tools or inclinations you already possess: a musical instrument\, a visual or writing practice\, a love of movement\, or simply your own curious attention. Whether you  \n \nconsider yourself an artist or not is irrelevant; the work is not about what you make\, but about who you remember you are.  \n \nBio:  \n \nSarah K. Pedinotti is a multidisciplinary musician\, producer\, and storyteller based in Brooklyn\, New York. Under the moniker Lip Talk\, she creates music that blurs boundaries between song\, art\, and improvisation. She co-runs Snack Mix\, an ongoing improvisation residency in NYC that brings together a rotating cast of musicians for spontaneous\, exploratory performance. Her recent multimedia installation\, Mantis Shrimp Matrix—which premiered in Bangkok and Tokyo—combined sound design\, environmental art\, and visual storytelling. Over the past twenty years\, she has produced\, performed\, and recorded across a wide spectrum of styles.  \n \nOriginally from New York’s Capital Region\, Sarah began performing at local venues including Caffè Lena\, where her love of live improvisation first took root. Her work invites audiences and students alike into a spirit of deep listening\, play\, and creative freedom.  \n \nInfluences and Inspirations:  \n \n\nPauline Oliveros: The practice of Deep Listening and expanding perception. \nNuar Alsadir: The concept of Animal Joy and laughter as a release from self-surveillance.\nAdrienne Maree Brown: The principles of emergent strategy and revolutionary love.\nRoss Gay: The cultivation of joy through radical noticing. \nYoko Ono: The power of participatory\, instructional\, and relational art. \nBraiding Sweetgrass: The wisdom of reciprocity and our relationship with the material world.\nButch Morris: collective\, real-time composition through conduction.\n\n#adultclass \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/forget-everything-you-know-and-remember-all-the-things-you-are/2026-10-07/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-6.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261008T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261008T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005934-1791464400-1791471600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. \n \nRed Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-10-08/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261009T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261009T153000 DTSTAMP:20260710T173626Z CREATED:20260710T172053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T173626Z UID:10006425-1791554400-1791559800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Singing with Girl Blue DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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\nSinging with Girl Blue \n \nFridays Sept 18 – Oct 9 \n \n2 pm – 3 pm \n \n$120 \n \nSpend four weeks with Girl Blue learning how to become more connected\, comfortable\, and confident in your relationship with your singing voice. Enjoy meditating\, breathing\, learning and singing with others as our sessions culminate in a group recording of a beautiful original song by the great Dan Berggren. A wonderful and safe place to get into your body and find a deeper connection to your own voice. \n \nArielle Woodul (Girl Blue) is a local singer and songwriter who has been performing around the area and throughout the country for years. She has been the recipient of nine Thomas Edison Music Awards\, and has had her songs placed in national and international commercials and television shows. She is also a vocalist who has been trained in opera and classical singing as well as pop and jazz. She has taught many students over the years and is certified in Vocal Health First Aid. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/singing-with-girl-blue/2026-10-09/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-8.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261010T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261010T120000 DTSTAMP:20251216T203426Z CREATED:20251216T201825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T203426Z UID:10005842-1791626400-1791633600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Songwriting Club DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nI'm happy to announce that Songwriting Club is back at Caffè Lena with a more structured time slot. "Second Saturday Songwriting Club" will meet (you guessed it) every second Saturday! Starting January 10th 10am – 12pm. Hosted by Reese Fulmer and Girl Blue! The club will meet monthly with special guests being a more "special" event. Bring your pens\, pencils\, instruments\, thinking caps\, favorite songs.  \n \nJanuary 10th  \n \n10am – 12pm \n \n$5 donation \n \ncookies and coffee by donation \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/songwriting-club-2/2026-10-10/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/december-23.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261012T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261012T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006387-1791831600-1791838800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-10-12/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261014T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261014T110000 DTSTAMP:20260125T033938Z CREATED:20260121T200736Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T033938Z UID:10006453-1791973800-1791975600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Folk Club Kids DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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 \nJoin Dan Berggren\, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster 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 Andy and Bill Spence. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/folk-club-kids-4/2026-10-14/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-40.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261014T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261014T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006406-1791988200-1791999000@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! \n \nStudents are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. \n \nOona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  \n \n#youthclass \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-10-14/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261015T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261015T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005936-1792069200-1792076400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. \n \nRed Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-10-15/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T210000 DTSTAMP:20260703T181126Z CREATED:20260703T175610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260703T181126Z UID:10006388-1792436400-1792443600@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Open Mic DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nOPEN MIC NIGHT \n \nDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM \n \nPlay your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades\, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine\, The Alt Weekly\, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows\, all attention is focused on the stage.  \n \nOUR HOSTS \n \nFirst Monday – Rick Bolton \n \nSecond Monday – Carolyn Shapiro  \n \nThird Monday – Ray Pashoukos \n \nFourth Monday – Kate Blain  \n \nHERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT: \n \nEvery Monday. All ages\, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required. \n \nPlease leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to. \n \nDoors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes / \n \nSign up is first come first serve \n \nYou are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes. \n \nCoffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly. \n \nPlay Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity\, explicit sexual themes\, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.  \n \nCONTACT US \n \nIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/open-mic-48/2026-10-19/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/OpenMic_N31.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T110000 DTSTAMP:20260125T033938Z CREATED:20260121T200736Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T033938Z UID:10006454-1792578600-1792580400@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:Folk Club Kids DESCRIPTION:Instructional \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 \nJoin Dan Berggren\, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster 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 Andy and Bill Spence. \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/folk-club-kids-4/2026-10-21/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-40.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T173000 DTSTAMP:20260707T160630Z CREATED:20260706T152716Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T160630Z UID:10006407-1792593000-1792603800@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAfter School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne \n \n11 weeks starting September 30th \n \nUse these links to sign up: \n \n2:45\, 3:40\, 4:35 \n \nMusic is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.   \n \nWeekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music\, including singing\, exploring various string instruments\, music theory basics\, rhythm exercises\, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch\, confidence in performance practice\, and more. \n \n \n \nYouth Folk Ensemble is–  \n \nMixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. \n \nFocus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. \n \nExplore string instruments and singing\, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar\, ukulele\, banjo\, mandolin\, bass\, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). \n \nLearn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. \n \nLearning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. \n \nNeed help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org \n \nAfter School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY 12866. \n \nThe three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! \n \nStudents are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together\, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. \n \nMeet the instructors: \n \nJames Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist\, composer\, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs\, NY. Originally from Louisville\, KY\, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups\, at times performing on bass\, guitar\, drums\, and vocals\, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo\, Drank The Gold\, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs\, as well as original compositions and arrangements\, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others\, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar\, mandolin\, banjo\, ukulele\, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music\, Dance Flurry Festival\, GrassRoots Culture Camp\, and Winter Village Music Camp. \n \nOona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs\, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold\, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music\, folk songs\, and original compositions\, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls\, Folk Club Kids\, Carolyn Shapiro\, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca\, NY\, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle\, she began performing with her family band as a teenager\, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork\, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do\, Dr. Dog)\, manages a private music teaching studio\, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs\, including GrassRoots Culture Camp\, the Flurry Festival\, Winter Village Music Camp\, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.  \n \n#youthclass \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n Doors Open\n Doors Open: 2:30 pm \n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\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 Mandolin Vitamins with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Q+A with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 18 • 4 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/after-school-folk-ensemble-with-oona-grady-and-james-gascoyne/2026-10-21/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/december-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T150000 DTSTAMP:20260105T150926Z CREATED:20260105T145344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T150926Z UID:10005935-1792674000-1792681200@www.caffelena.org SUMMARY:School of Music Slow Jam DESCRIPTION:Instructional \n\n \n Share:\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAll are Welcome!\nWE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS\,\nAND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!\n \nThis weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation! \n \nTHERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS! \n \nSUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person \n \nOur jams are all about sharing songs\, making new friends\, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music. \n \nALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass\, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic. \n \nRed Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music\, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe\, come prepared with your song\, and let us hear some good old fast\, high and lonesome\, some slow and low\, or a good old favorite. All are welcome! \n \nWhat is a Slow Jam? \n \nIt is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G\, A\, D\, C major\, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”\, “e”\, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area. \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Price\n \n General\n $35.00\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n More Information \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 with Alan Epstein\n\n American Roots Bluegrass Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 10 • 10 AM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Janis Ian Explains the World\n\n Instructional Singer Songwriter Storytelling\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 14 • 3 PM \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n Caffè Lena\n \n\n \n\n Guitar Tips and Tricks with Janis Ian\n\n Instructional\n \n \n \n \n class\n \n \n\n \n Aug 19 • 3 PM URL:https://www.caffelena.org/event/school-of-music-slow-jam-11/2026-10-22/ LOCATION:Caffè Lena\, 47 Phila Street\, Saratoga Springs\, NY\, 12866\, United States CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.caffelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/december-3-3.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR