Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: Bonnie Raitt’s ‘Roots in the Blues’
2026-03-17 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Other Poetry Storytelling

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On Tuesday, March 17, Rochmon Record Club will converge at Caffe’ Lena 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, to listen to and learn about Bonnie Raitt’s ‘Roots in the Blues’ a Retrospective Listening Party. Inspired by Blues music and musicians at the earliest stages of her long, award-winning career, you’’ll go back to the beginning, listening to blues cuts off Bonnie Raitt’s first and second albums from 1971 and 1972 including “Mighty Tight Woman” and “Women be Wise” by classic blues woman Sippie Wallace and showcasing the slide guitar technique adopted from her blues mentor Mississippi Fred McDowell. The Rochmon will also play cuts off Bonnie’s first live performance album, 1995’s ‘Road Tested’, highlighting Bonnie’s evolving talents as a most sensitive interpreter of the songs of her friends, including “Thing Called Love”, “Love Letter”, “Angel From Montgomery” and 7 more. A Rochmon Record Club Listening Party is meant to inform and deepen our understanding of the history of the individual performers, songs, and stories that went into the making of this classic album. By listening together, we hear the music again for the first time. ​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

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Folk Club Kids
2026-03-18 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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Folk Club Kids: Stories, Songs, and Sing-a-longs

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

https://www.caffelena.org/folk-club-kids/

Join 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!

This program is made possible by Andy and Bill Spence.

Doors Open
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Price

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-03-18 14:30 - 17:30, 2026-03-25 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

17 weeks starting January 28th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

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

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

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet the instructors:

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

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

#youthclass

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Bluegrass Jam
2026-03-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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All are welcome to join the circle for an evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. Red Spruce will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!!

Doors Open
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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-03-19 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-03-26 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

﻿

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Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light
2026-03-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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The song “Radium Girls (Curie Eleison)” tells the story of factory workers poisoned by radium paint in the early 1900s. Written by songwriter Rachel Sumner, it has been streamed hundreds of thousands of times and shared widely in classrooms, performances, and folk circles across the country.

Now Sumner brings those songs to the Caffè Lena stage with her trio Traveling Light, performing gathered around a single microphone with close harmonies, fiddle, upright bass, and acoustic guitar.

In 2024 she was named a Kerrville New Folk winner, one of the most respected honors in songwriting, and five of her songs are now archived at the Library of Congress.

On stage, Sumner is joined by Kat Wallace on fiddle and vocals and Mike Siegel on upright bass and vocals. Performing gathered around a single microphone, the trio creates a warm, balanced sound built on close vocal harmonies and careful musicianship—exactly the kind of music that shines in a listening room.

Their latest release, The Traveling Light Sessions, captures the trio the same way they perform live: voices, fiddle, bass, and guitar recorded together in the room, without overdubs.

SAMPLE SONG

For listeners who love great songwriting, rich harmonies, and acoustic music played up close, Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light deliver a memorable night on the Caffè Lena stage.

Can't make it to the show in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

﻿

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Momentum Series: Joy Clark with opener Buggy Jive
2026-03-20 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Caffè Lena is thrilled to welcome Louisiana-born singer-songwriter and guitarist Joy Clark, a rising force in Americana and folk whose debut album Tell it to the Wind marks her arrival as a bold new voice. Raised just outside New Orleans in a tight-knit, deeply religious family, Joy first learned guitar and harmony in her parents’ church. As she came into her identity as a queer Black woman, songwriting became her path toward freedom and self-definition.

Her sound blends the social consciousness of folk, the grooves of Southeast Louisiana, and the soul-rooted music she grew up with. Joy honed her craft in New Orleans, toured with Grammy-winner Cyril Neville, and later joined Allison Russell’s acclaimed Rainbow Coalition, performing alongside Brandi Carlile, the Indigo Girls, and more. Russell calls her “a brilliant artist, writer, and singer.”

On Tell it to the Wind, produced with four-time Grammy nominee Margaret Becker, Joy delivers songs of liberation, love, and belonging. It is a stirring, triumphant debut from an artist fully stepping into her power.

SAMPLE SONG

Opening the night is Upstate NY soul-rock songwriter Buggy Jive, whose music blends Zeppelin grit, D’Angelo groove, and Joni Mitchell storytelling. A past NPR Tiny Desk “Top Shelf” pick and multiple Eddie Award winner, Buggy Jive brings razor-sharp lyricism, rich humor, and a sound steeped in literature, soul, and rock.

SAMPLE SONG

Expect extraordinary guitar work, heartfelt storytelling, and songs rooted in identity, liberation, and joy. A night of two visionary artists who leave everything on the stage.

This show is part of our Momentum Series, ﻿made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon, in honor of Thom O'Neil.

﻿This series features high energy music–solo or band. These are typically more shows that infuse the room with crackling energy rather than featuring solo acoustic performers.

​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

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Bright Series: Andrea von Kampen Trio
2026-03-21 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Intimate Songs • Lyrical Guitar • Thoughtful Storytelling

Described by The New York Times as “a fine singer with guitar work reminiscent of the cult hero Nick Drake,” Andrea von Kampen is a songwriter of rare subtlety—an artist whose music invites deep listening, reflection, and connection.

Her songs are intimate and introspective, guided by graceful melodies and a calm, expressive voice that feels both timeless and immediate. After a series of well-received EPs, von Kampen released her full-length debut Old Country in 2019, followed by That Spell (2021) on Fantasy Records. In 2022, she made her acting debut in the independent film A Chance Encounter, starring in the film and writing and recording its soundtrack, also released via Fantasy Records.

Her most recent studio album, Sister Moon (2024), marks a new chapter. Inspired by the writing of Richard Powers, the album explores climate change, the interconnectedness of nature, and our place within it—songs that feel contemplative, urgent, and quietly powerful. Von Kampen’s work consistently bridges the personal and the political, the inward gaze and the wider world.

A seasoned and compelling live performer, Andrea von Kampen has shared the stage with artists including The Tallest Man on Earth, Trampled by Turtles, Watchhouse, Punch Brothers, The Wood Brothers, Bonny Light Horseman, and Leif Vollebekk. She has appeared at renowned festivals such as the Newport Folk Festival and Rocky Mountain Folks Festival, and her music has reached listeners around the globe, amassing more than 55 million streams on Spotify.

Looking ahead, von Kampen is preparing to release a protest EP later this year—an urgent collection of songs confronting the reemergence of hateful rhetoric in American politics, speaking truth to power, and calling for justice and solidarity.

SAMPLE SONG

With a warm voice, graceful guitar playing, and a rare gift for reflection, Andrea von Kampen creates performances that feel personal, present, and quietly powerful. This is music for listeners who value nuance, care, and meaning—songs that linger, and a live performance perfectly suited to the intimacy of a listening room.

We’re thrilled to welcome her to the Caffè Lena stage for an evening of songs made for listening closely.

​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

﻿

Doors Open
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ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters
2026-03-22 14:00 - 16:00 | Online, Streaming On Zoom
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters

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

Part One: Sundays March 1 – 22, 2025

Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Class Description

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

In Part One, we’ll focus on:

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

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

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

Bring to our first class

Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes

An open heart and mind

How to prepare:

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

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WAMC On the Road: Communities in Conversation, "Does Music Matter?"
2026-03-22 14:00 - 16:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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WAMC On the Road: Communities in Conversation, "Does Music Matter?"

Join WAMC On the Road for a special conversation recorded live at historic Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs. Our panel of experts will attempt to answer the question “Does music matter?” (spoiler: Yes, it does.) by exploring topics surrounding music as a path to healing, empathy and health.

Leading the discussion will be WAMC’s Southern Adirondack Bureau Chief Aaron Shellow-Lavine. Joining Aaron on the dais will be Caffe Lena Executive Director Sarah Craig, Dr. Dominique Vuvan, Associate Professor in the Psychology Department and Neuroscience Program at Skidmore College and folk-musician and educator Dan Berggren.

Music as a path to healing, empathy and health posits a robust dialogue about what role does music play in making us better people? How does music connect and grow our communities? Does live music have a future? We’ll engage these questions and more with open minds from our panel of experts, as well as thoughts and queries from our live audience . Does music matter?

Admission is free with registration through Caffe Lena.

WAMC On the Road brings WAMC Northeast Public Radio’s microphones out of the soundproof booth and into the beating hearts of the communities we serve. This exciting endeavor meets listeners beyond the airwaves, capturing the energy and authenticity of live, on-location events throughout WAMC’s seven state listening region, from Plattsburgh to Pittsfield to Poughkeepsie.

Aaron Shellow-Lavine Bio – Aaron is WAMC's Southern Adirondack Bureau Chief, covering politics and community news in and around the region including Saratoga Springs, Lake George, and Gloversville. He graduated from Skidmore College in 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in American Studies with a minor in Black Studies. He lives in Saratoga Springs and when he's not reporting, he's taking his dog on long walks and chatting with neighbors.

Sarah Craig Bio – Sarah carries forward Lena Spencer’s dedication to community service through music, creating friendships, careers and harmonious connection. She has contributed articles to national music publications, freely offers herself as a mentor to emerging artists and presenters, and shares her experience as a panelist at conferences in the US and Canada. She earned her BA in Psychology and Women’s Studies from the University of Vermont. She lives in rural Shushan, NY where she gardens, runs, reads avidly about ecology, theology, psychology and social justice, and serves on the Board of the Cambridge Food Co-Op.

Dr. Dominique Vuvan – Dominique received her Ph.D. in Psychology with a certificate from the Program in Neuroscience from the University of Toronto in 2012. She was a postdoctoral fellow at theInternational Laboratory of Brain, Music, and Sound Research (BRAMS) from 2012 to 2016. Currently, she is Associate Professor in the Psychology Department and Neuroscience Program at Skidmore College. Professor Vuvan is the director of the Skidmore Music and Cognition Laboratory (MaCLab), which focuses on the neurocognition of music with particular interests in expectancy processing, language-music interaction, and individual differences. [CV]

Dan Berggren – A tradition-based songsmith, Dan Berggren writes with honesty, humor and a strong sense of place. His songs explore the many dimensions of home, hard-working folks, taking care of our planet and each other. While his roots are firmly in the Adirondacks where he was raised, Dan's music has branched out across many borders. The award-winning educator and musician has entertained audiences from Kentucky to Michigan, Belgium to Bulgaria, and Zimbabwe to Transylvania.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

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Mark & Jill with Erin Harpe Country Blues Duo
2026-03-22 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Mark & Jill

"Watching Mark and Jill, there's no doubt they have a spiritual relationship to blues music and to each other. It's riveting to watch them and feel the music take over the room." – Sarah Craig

Where the Delta Meets the Rio Grande — Blues, Soul & Slide Guitar Fire
Based in Upstate New York, Mark & Jill blend New Orleans groove with Austin soul, crafting a raw, heartfelt acoustic blues sound all their own. With NY Blues Hall of Fame guitarist Mark Tolstrup on resonant slide and fingerstyle guitar, and Texas-born vocalist Jill Tolstrup delivering soulful, powerhouse performances, this duo creates music that is gritty, honest, and timeless.
Their chemistry is unmistakable. Over Mark’s haunting slide guitar, their voices rise and intertwine, channeling the earliest roots of the blues while bringing a fresh, vibrant energy to the tradition. Their songs explore the hard edges of life and the deep joys of being alive—always with spirit and soul.
Drawing from Delta blues, gospel, early roots, and American folk, their live shows move effortlessly from foot-stomping originals to reimagined classics. Whether on a festival stage or in an intimate listening room, Mark & Jill bring an irresistible mix of heat, harmony, and emotional depth.
Twice selected to represent the Northeast at the International Blues Challenge, where they reached the semi-finals, the duo has earned a devoted following among blues lovers, guitar fans, and roots-music audiences throughout the region.

Don’t miss this electrifying duo as they return to Caffè Lena. Come hear where the Delta meets the Rio Grande—and feel the blues come fully alive.

SAMPLE SONG

Erin Harpe Country Blues Duo

Acoustic Roots & Country Blues

The Erin Harpe Country Blues Duo brings irresistible, old-school acoustic blues to the Caffè Lena stage. Praised by Living Blues Magazine as “today’s country blues at its very best,” Erin Harpe is celebrated as “one of the finest fingerpicking acoustic blues singers in the land.”

With her soulful vocals, dazzling Piedmont-style guitar, foot percussion, and kazoo, Erin Harpe delivers a sound that’s both authentic and electrifying. Paired with Jim Countryman’s grooving bass and harmony vocals, the duo creates a full-band feel with just two players—tight, rhythmic, joyful, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Fresh off a wildly successful UK and Spain tour, Erin and Jim bring decades of musical chemistry and a set packed with blues classics, heartfelt originals, and high-energy roots music.

Don’t miss this powerhouse duo bringing true country blues to life—raw, rhythmic, and straight from the heart.

SAMPLE SONG

​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Open Mic
2026-03-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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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

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Poetry Open Mic Featuring Natalya Sukhonos
2026-03-24 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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A native of Odesa, Ukraine, Natalya Sukhonos is multilingual, speaking Russian, English, as well as Ukrainian, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Italian. She holds a PhD in Comparative Literature from Harvard. Beyond Odesa, she has lived in New York City, New Haven, Madrid, Boston, Rio de Janeiro, San Francisco, and Istanbul. Natalya is a poet, scholar, and teacher deeply committed to the power of language to uplift, inspire, and defamiliarize us from the ordinary. Natalya is equally comfortable teaching literature and creative writing to children as well as to college students and older adults. Nominated for the Pushcart Prize in 2015 and 2020 and the Best New Poets Anthology of 2015, Natalya was a finalist for the June 2025 Reading Period of the Black Lawrence Immigrant Writing Series. She came out with Parachute in 2016 (Kelsay Books of Aldrich Press) and A Stranger Home (Moon Pie Press) in 2020. Natalya loves to experiment with poetic forms, space on the page, and multilingual writing. Sunlight Trapped in Stone (Green Writers Press 2026) is her third book.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Folk Club Kids
2026-03-25 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Folk Club Kids: Stories, Songs, and Sing-a-longs

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

https://www.caffelena.org/folk-club-kids/

Join 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!

This program is made possible by Andy and Bill Spence.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

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Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson
2026-03-25 19:00 - 20:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Wednesday Night with Caffè Lena School of Music –

March 11, 25 and April 1, 8. 7pm – 8pm

$120

This course covers the basics of music theory for those who play music regularly but have limited or no knowledge of music theory. A basic understanding of music theory can help musicians at all levels learn faster, be more creative and communicate better with other musicians. Each week we will discuss a different aspect of music theory (i.e. rhythm, melody and harmony) and real world examples of how these concepts are applied.

Experience level: All levels

Instructor: Bruce Thompson

Topics:

Rhythm Concepts

Intervals

Major and Minor Scales

Chords & Chord Progressions (Constructions and types)

Notation and Musical forms

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

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$5.00

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$5.00

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Folk Heritage Series: Andy Cohen, Eleanor Ellis & Bill Ellis
2026-03-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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For fans of acoustic blues, it just doesn't get any better than this. Three towering talents take us on a rollicking tour through the Delta, the Piedmont, and the Paramount record catalog of the '20s and '30s, and pieces learned first-hand in the homes of the creators themselves.

Eleanor Ellis is a celebrated master of country and Piedmont blues–one of the most significant women in the acoustic blues genre. She is a torchbearer especially for her friend, mentor and musical partner, blues & gospel singer and guitarist Flora Molton, with whom she recorded two albums: I Want to Be Ready to Hear God When He Calls and the eponymous Flora Molton, recorded for Radio France.

Acclaimed Americana/Blues guitarist William Lee Ellis was named after his godfather, legendary bluegrass pioneer Bill Monroe. His father, Tony Ellis, was one of Monroe's Blue Grass Boys. After earning a master's degree in classical guitar performance, Ellis met Piedmont blues giant Reverend Gary Davis. "Davis was a great sacred bluesman…There's a combination of the heavenly and the hellish, there are wonderful dynamics, tension and drama." In his quest to make the music's message live for today, Ellis has developed a style of Americana all his own.

Blues picker and Caffe Lena stalwart Andy Cohen is a connector between the legendary bluesmen of the last century (Big Bill Broonzy, Rev. Gary Davis, Honeyboy Edwards) and today's generation of blues revivalists. As a youngster coming up in the '60s folk revival, Andy began the explorations with "source" musicians that led to his current status as a virtuoso fingerstyle guitarist and "walking, talking folk-blues-roots music encyclopedia." An Andy Cohen performance encompasses the well-known, the obscure and the weirdly wonderful, and often involves autoharp and dolceola along with acoustic 6 and 12-string guitars.

SAMPLE SONG

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

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Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
2026-03-27 12:00 - 13:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Bring your lunch & listen to a playlist curated by a Caffe Lena Community member. For the March edition of the Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour, our playlist curator will be none other than the Captain Fun Coordinator herself! Laura Sterling! She will be playing songs about trains! The D.J. spinning those records will be the Rochmon himself – Chuck “Rochmon” Vosganian.

All are welcome to gather at Lena’s from Noon to 1 PM on the last Friday of each month to enjoy musical memories and new discoveries. The playlist is selected by a different community member each month from the Captain Fun Listening Library of vinyl records in Lena’s lobby. Bring a brown bag lunch. Coffee and tea are provided.

The Captain Fun Listening Library occupying the north wall in the Caffè Lena lobby consists of 1,516 vinyl albums and several hundred CDs selected from Al “Captain Fun” McKenney’s expertly curated collection. This treasure trove of folk, blues and jazz was left us in 2015 and we share it through our monthly listening hour, as Al wished.

Enjoy the memories these records bring back, and dig deep into American roots music.

If you want to create a playlist and host a session, please email Laura Sterling or let us know when you are next at Lena’s!

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Chris Jones & The Night Drivers
2026-03-27 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Chris Jones & the Night Drivers make some of the most distinctively elegant yet driving bluegrass music heard anywhere today. Deeply rooted in tradition but never bound to it, they deliver original music with tight arrangements, emotional authenticity, and engaging humor. As actor and banjo player Steve Martin says, “Chris Jones’ voice is there with the great masters,” adding that the Night Drivers are “some of the best players in bluegrass.”

Collectively, Chris Jones & the Night Drivers have won 11 IBMA awards and have racked up 26 #1 songs. The band’s recent full-length release, their first all-original album, Make Each Second Last, has received rave reviews and yielded an unprecedented eight consecutive #1 songs, including the title track “We Needed This Ride.” Their song, “Riding the Chief,” co-written by Chris and Thomm Jutz, was nominated for 2022 IBMA Song of the Year. They have topped both the Bluegrass Today and Roots Music Review airplay charts with the latest album. In July of 2022, they made their debut on The Grand Ole Opry. Their new EP, Pages in Your Hand, has also yielded two more #1 songs, including the title track.

SAMPLE SONG

“When I first heard Chris Jones over 25 years ago he became one of my favorite singers, and he continues to have one of the most distinctive and best voices in music, period. It’s like fine wine for the ears.” – Jim Lauderdale

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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5th Annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser for the School of Music
2026-03-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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Join us for our 5th annual pancake breakfast! This event is a fundraiser for our School of Music here at Caffè Lena. Enjoy fresh pancakes and live music by the Rolling Pebbles, The Jazz Pebbles and the Adirondack Song Dogs!

Maple Syrup provided by Twin Leaf Farms!

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Peak Jazz Series: Catherine Russell
2026-03-28 17:00 - 19:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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A Voice from the Heart of American Song

Vocalist Catherine Russell is a native New Yorker born into musical royalty—and she carries that legacy forward with joy, depth, and irresistible swing.

Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a legendary pianist, composer, bandleader, and longtime musical director for Louis Armstrong. Her mother, the late Carline Ray, was a pioneering vocalist, guitarist, and bassist who performed with the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Mary Lou Williams, and Sy Oliver. Steeped in this extraordinary lineage, Catherine Russell brings an authenticity to American song that is both deeply rooted and entirely her own.

After graduating with honors from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Russell built an astonishing career as a sought-after vocalist, touring and recording with artists including Steely Dan, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Jackson Browne, Levon Helm, Michael Feinstein, Rosanne Cash, and many more—appearing on over 200 albums.

Since stepping forward as a leader, Russell has earned universal acclaim. Her albums have topped JazzWeek, Roots Music Report, and iTunes Jazz charts, reached Billboard rankings, and garnered multiple GRAMMY® nominations, international awards, and a GRAND PRIX du Jazz Vocal from the French Jazz Academy. Her recordings have received raves from DownBeat, The Wall Street Journal, JazzTimes, Relix, No Depression, and beyond, with AllMusic declaring her “a retro old-school vocalist for the ages.”

Her 2022 release, Send For Me, continued this remarkable run and was followed by a widely celebrated NPR Tiny Desk (Home) concert. Russell has performed to sold-out audiences across four continents, appearing at major festivals and iconic venues including Newport Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, SFJAZZ, Tanglewood, and The Kennedy Center.

Catherine Russell’s most recent release, My Ideal (Dot Time Records), is an intimate and stunning collection of voice-and-piano duets recorded with acclaimed pianist Sean Mason. Released in August 2024, the album strips each song to its emotional core, highlighting Russell’s radiant phrasing, deep swing, and storytelling mastery. Widely praised by critics, My Ideal earned a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album, further cementing Russell’s place among the great interpreters of American song.

Catherine's repertoire draws from the Great American Songbook and beyond, spanning the 1920s to the present. With sparkling acoustic swing, off-the-beaten-path song choices, and a vocal approach bursting with soul, wit, and warmth, she brings these songs vividly to life—honoring their history while making them feel utterly immediate.

SAMPLE SONG

We’re thrilled to welcome Catherine Russell to the Caffè Lena stage for an unforgettable evening of timeless songs, joyful swing, and world-class jazz artistry.

﻿The Peak Jazz Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon in memory of Corrine Simonds.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Peak Jazz Series: Catherine Russell
2026-03-28 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

Share:

A Voice from the Heart of American Song

Vocalist Catherine Russell is a native New Yorker born into musical royalty—and she carries that legacy forward with joy, depth, and irresistible swing.

Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a legendary pianist, composer, bandleader, and longtime musical director for Louis Armstrong. Her mother, the late Carline Ray, was a pioneering vocalist, guitarist, and bassist who performed with the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Mary Lou Williams, and Sy Oliver. Steeped in this extraordinary lineage, Catherine Russell brings an authenticity to American song that is both deeply rooted and entirely her own.

After graduating with honors from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Russell built an astonishing career as a sought-after vocalist, touring and recording with artists including Steely Dan, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Jackson Browne, Levon Helm, Michael Feinstein, Rosanne Cash, and many more—appearing on over 200 albums.

Since stepping forward as a leader, Russell has earned universal acclaim. Her albums have topped JazzWeek, Roots Music Report, and iTunes Jazz charts, reached Billboard rankings, and garnered multiple GRAMMY® nominations, international awards, and a GRAND PRIX du Jazz Vocal from the French Jazz Academy. Her recordings have received raves from DownBeat, The Wall Street Journal, JazzTimes, Relix, No Depression, and beyond, with AllMusic declaring her “a retro old-school vocalist for the ages.”

Her 2022 release, Send For Me, continued this remarkable run and was followed by a widely celebrated NPR Tiny Desk (Home) concert. Russell has performed to sold-out audiences across four continents, appearing at major festivals and iconic venues including Newport Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, SFJAZZ, Tanglewood, and The Kennedy Center.

Catherine Russell’s most recent release, My Ideal (Dot Time Records), is an intimate and stunning collection of voice-and-piano duets recorded with acclaimed pianist Sean Mason. Released in August 2024, the album strips each song to its emotional core, highlighting Russell’s radiant phrasing, deep swing, and storytelling mastery. Widely praised by critics, My Ideal earned a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album, further cementing Russell’s place among the great interpreters of American song.

Catherine Russell’s repertoire draws from the Great American Songbook and beyond, spanning the 1920s to the present. With sparkling acoustic swing, off-the-beaten-path song choices, and a vocal approach bursting with soul, wit, and warmth, she brings these songs vividly to life—honoring their history while making them feel utterly immediate.

SAMPLE SONG

We’re thrilled to welcome Catherine Russell to the Caffè Lena stage for an unforgettable evening of timeless songs, joyful swing, and world-class jazz artistry.

﻿The Peak Jazz Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon in memory of Corrine Simonds.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams
2026-03-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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World-Class Americana • Harmonies Born of a Lifetime Together

There’s nothing quite like the creative spark between Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams. Married and making music together for nearly four decades, their onstage chemistry is electric, equal parts soulful harmony, virtuoso musicianship, and the lived-in warmth of a true long-term partnership.

Their résumés are legendary; 7 years with Levon Helm’s band and 8 years with Bob Dylan (Larry)

The couple’s body of work includes four albums of their own (the latest being All This Time) and extensive touring with Jackson Browne, John Prine, Emmylou Harris, Little Feat, Phil Lesh and Bob Weir among others.

Larry is a Grammy-winning master of all things stringed; mandolin, bouzouki, violin, lap steel, banjo, while Teresa’s powerhouse vocals bring gospel-rooted fire and emotional depth.

Their new album All This Time is their most romantic and intuitive yet, shaped by resilience, devotion, and the joy of rediscovering each other through hardship and healing.

“Their chemistry is undeniable—music made from love, lived experience, and extraordinary talent.” — No Depression

This special small-venue show will feature fan favorites, dark ballads, barnburners, and a few unexpected covers, all delivered with the heart and mastery that define this remarkable duo.

SAMPLE SONG

Don’t miss Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams at Caffè Lena for an unforgettable night of songs, stories, and harmony forged over a lifetime.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

﻿

Get Tickets

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Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2026-03-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 10 students. The class will run from 10:00 till 12:00. March 30th, June 6 and 13th

Alan Epstein has been playing mandolin for the past 54 years and has been teaching others to play mandolin for 30 years. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pa, he has lived in the Capital District since 2008 and is currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. In 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra. and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Open Mic
2026-03-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Skidmore Jazz Ensembles Community Concert
2026-03-31 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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Enjoy an evening of dynamic jazz as the Skidmore Jazz Combos take the stage! The event features multiple ensembles, each presenting an engaging program of jazz standards and contemporary works.

﻿This free community concert offers Saratoga audiences an opportunity to experience the creativity and dedication at the heart of Skidmore College’s renowned Music Department.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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Folk Club Kids
2026-04-01 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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Folk Club Kids: Stories, Songs, and Sing-a-longs

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

https://www.caffelena.org/folk-club-kids/

Join 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!

This program is made possible by Andy and Bill Spence.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-04-01 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

17 weeks starting January 28th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

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

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

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet the instructors:

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

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

#youthclass

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson
2026-04-01 19:00 - 20:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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Wednesday Night with Caffè Lena School of Music –

March 11, 25 and April 1, 8. 7pm – 8pm

$120

This course covers the basics of music theory for those who play music regularly but have limited or no knowledge of music theory. A basic understanding of music theory can help musicians at all levels learn faster, be more creative and communicate better with other musicians. Each week we will discuss a different aspect of music theory (i.e. rhythm, melody and harmony) and real world examples of how these concepts are applied.

Experience level: All levels

Instructor: Bruce Thompson

Topics:

Rhythm Concepts

Intervals

Major and Minor Scales

Chords & Chord Progressions (Constructions and types)

Notation and Musical forms

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