Caffè Lena

"A Joyful Noise!" Gospel Dinner with Soulist Garland Nelson & Friends
2025-10-26 17:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Folk Multi-act Program Singer Songwriter

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A Joyful Noise! Gospel Dinner with Soulist Garland Nelson & Friends is more than a concert—it’s a full-sensory celebration of community, comfort, and spirit. This one-of-a-kind evening blends the rich, uplifting power of live gospel music with a lovingly prepared Caribbean dinner by Vashti's Kitchen Delights, creating an atmosphere that nourishes both body and soul. Led by the incomparable Garland Nelson, whose voice radiates warmth and joy, each gathering becomes a heartfelt experience of connection and praise. Surrounded by friends, familiar songs, and the clink of shared plates, guests don’t just attend—they belong. Join us for a night where the music moves you, the meal fills you, and the spirit of togetherness leaves you glowing. Sample Song Can't make it in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. This event is made possible by the generous support of Dottie Pepper and David Normoyle. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 11:30 am

Price

Member
FREE

General
FREE

Child or Student
FREE

inclusive of fees

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Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band
2025-10-25 20:00 - 22:00
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Cutting his teeth as the house manager right here at Caffè Lena, Reese Fulmer has emerged “with a poet’s sensibility rich with great storytelling and a healthy dose of irony.” (Viv Nesbitt, Art of the Song) The 2023 and 2024 Americana Artist of the Year at the Thomas Edison Music Awards, Reese and his band have become one of the fastest-rising groups in upstate NY with expansive live albums highlighting a reputation for compelling performances. With a rotating cast of talented players, a broad and dynamic body of work, and a refusal to set anything in stone, their shows are always fresh, full of joy, and hard to describe. Think Wilco with hints of Prine and Zappa: "smart, emotionally tuned arrangements and a stage presence that balanced earnestness with unpredictability. Their live performance thrives in the liminal space between genres folk, Americana, jazz and the result is a sound that’s complex without being convoluted." (NYSMusic)

SAMPLE SONG

Now, with deep roots at Caffè Lena and a fearless spirit of exploration, Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band continue to redefine what live Americana can be—vibrant, genre-fluid, and unmistakably their own.

Can't be there in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. 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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Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band
2025-10-25 16:00 - 18:00
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Cutting his teeth as the house manager right here at Caffè Lena, Reese Fulmer has emerged “with a poet’s sensibility rich with great storytelling and a healthy dose of irony.” (Viv Nesbitt, Art of the Song) The 2023 and 2024 Americana Artist of the Year at the Thomas Edison Music Awards, Reese and his band have become one of the fastest-rising groups in upstate NY with expansive live albums highlighting a reputation for compelling performances. With a rotating cast of talented players, a broad and dynamic body of work, and a refusal to set anything in stone, their shows are always fresh, full of joy, and hard to describe. Think Wilco with hints of Prine and Zappa: "smart, emotionally tuned arrangements and a stage presence that balanced earnestness with unpredictability. Their live performance thrives in the liminal space between genres folk, Americana, jazz and the result is a sound that’s complex without being convoluted." (NYSMusic)

SAMPLE SONG

Now, with deep roots at Caffè Lena and a fearless spirit of exploration, Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band continue to redefine what live Americana can be—vibrant, genre-fluid, and unmistakably their own.

Can't be there in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. 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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65th Anniversary Folk Heritage Series: The Don Juans
2025-10-24 20:00 - 22:00
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We’re very sorry to share that the upcoming performance by The DonJuans has been canceled. In August, Jon Vezner underwent major surgery. Although his recovery has been remarkable, a recent infection has temporarily set him back and he’s unable to travel for the performances scheduled this month.

At this time, there are no confirmed dates for rescheduling. Your tickets will be automatically refunded to the original form of payment.

We know how much many of you were looking forward to this show and join you in sending our best wishes to Jon for a full and speedy recovery.

—————————————————————————————–

The DonJuans—despite the playful name—are far more than a pair of charming faces. This powerhouse duo features two GRAMMY® Award-winning songwriters, Don Henry and Jon Vezner, whose song “Where’ve You Been” (recorded by Kathy Mattea) made country music history as the first to sweep all major Song of the Year honors, including the GRAMMY®, ACM®, CMA, and Nashville Songwriter’s Association International awards.

In the nearly 25 years since that landmark moment, Don and Jon have taken their music from the famed Bottom Line in New York City to Nashville’s Bluebird Café, sharing stages with legends like Joey Ramone, John Hartford, Michael Johnson, and David Crosby. Their songs have been recorded by a wide range of artists—Janis Ian, Ray Charles, John Mellencamp, Miranda Lambert, and more—reflecting their rare ability to craft melodies and stories that resonate across genres.

SAMPLE SONG

As The DonJuans, they bring together an extraordinary repertoire, seasoned artistry, and undeniable chemistry for a night of songs, humor, and masterful musicianship.

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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Music With Miss Deb
2025-10-24 09:30 - 10:30, 2025-10-17 09:30 - 10:30
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Experience this interactive and fun exploration of music with Miss Deb!

Sign up HERE

9:45am – 10:30am $125 9/19 – 11/21

We will sing songs, move around, play with colorful props and play percussion instruments while enjoying and learning about music in an organic learning environment.

Songs from other cultures will be included along with traditional folk songs.

Fun for the whole family!

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Ruthie Foster
2025-10-23 19:00 - 21:00
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Ruthie Foster’s music carries the weight of lived experience and the light of unwavering hope. With a voice that’s been compared to the likes of Aretha Franklin and Mavis Staples, Ruthie blends gospel, blues, soul, and folk into songs that uplift, empower, and heal.

Born into a family rooted in gospel tradition in rural Texas, Ruthie found her first inspiration in the voices of her mother and grandmother. Though she was drawn to songwriting and musicianship from an early age, her path wasn’t linear. After studying music in college and serving in the U.S. Navy, she returned to her creative roots with a renewed sense of purpose.

Later in life, Ruthie paused her rising career to care for her ailing mother—an experience that deepened the emotional richness of her music. The songs that followed are filled with gratitude, reflection, and quiet strength. Her most recent albums, including the Grammy-nominated Healing Time, are testaments to love, legacy, and the power of staying present through life’s hardest moments.

On stage, Ruthie is magnetic—radiating warmth and delivering each song with unshakable soul. Her music doesn’t just move the crowd. It moves the heart.

SAMPLE SONG NEW ALBUM

Join us for an unforgettable night with one of America’s most deeply human and musically gifted voices.

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. 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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School of Music Slow Jam
2025-10-23 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-10-16 13:00 - 15:00
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All are Welcome!
WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS,
AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!

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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Guitar Workshop Level 1 with Bruce Thompson
2025-10-23 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-10-16 11:00 - 12:00
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Registration closed for session, feel free to drop in for $25 per class.

Guitar I – Beginner 11:15 am – 12:10 pm

This class will focus on learning basic skills in order to play songs alone or with other players. Each week we will focus on learning specific skills that players can build on to gain confidence while playing. We will also work on playing different styles of music and transposing pieces into various keys. The goal is to provide players information and skills so they are comfortable in various musical environments.

Topics Include:

Open position chords and how they are related to each other

Moving from chord to chord smoothly and in time

Rhythm and strumming techniques

Single note play: Pentatonic scale, lead-ins and fills

Movable chord shapes

Learning new songs

Playing and performing with other musicians

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Guitar Workshop Level 2 with Bruce Thompson
2025-10-23 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-10-16 10:00 - 11:00
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Registration closed for session, feel free to drop in for $25 per class.

Guitar Workshop Intermediate guitar players 11:15 am – 12:10 pm

This class will focus on learning additional skills in order to play more advanced songs and arrangements alone or with other players. Each week we will focus on learning specific skills that players can build on to gain confidence while playing. We will also work on playing different styles of music and transposing pieces into various keys. The goal is to provide players information and skills so they are comfortable in various musical environments.

Topics:

Open position chords and how they are related to each other, including more advanced voicings

Chord extensions (6, 7, 9, 13), inversions and advanced voicings

Rhythm and strumming techniques, including syncopated rhythms, crosspicking and finger style rhythm playing

Single note play: utilizing various scales and phrasing to map out breaks/solos

Movable chord shapes and voicings

Learning and arranging new songs

Playing and performing with other musicians

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Share:

Registration closed for session, feel free to drop in for $25 per class.

Guitar I – Beginner 9:15 am – 10:10 am

This class will focus on learning basic skills in order to play songs alone or with other players. Each week we will focus on learning specific skills that players can build on to gain confidence while playing. We will also work on playing different styles of music and transposing pieces into various keys. The goal is to provide players information and skills so they are comfortable in various musical environments.

Topics Include:

Open position chords and how they are related to each other

Moving from chord to chord smoothly and in time

Rhythm and strumming techniques

Single note play: Pentatonic scale, lead-ins and fills

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Learning new songs

Playing and performing with other musicians

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Darin & Brooke Aldridge
2025-10-22 19:30 - 21:30
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With soaring harmonies, rootsy instrumental brilliance, and an unmistakable warmth, Darin & Brooke Aldridge have become one of the most beloved acts in modern bluegrass. Hailing from North Carolina, this husband-and-wife duo continues to reach new heights while staying grounded in the rich traditions of Americana, gospel, and bluegrass.

Brooke Aldridge is a four-time winner—and current reigning champion—of the IBMA Female Vocalist of the Yearaward, while Darin Aldridge, a former member of the legendary Country Gentlemen, is an IBMA Mentor of the Year and a masterful multi-instrumentalist and singer. Together, they’ve earned a host of accolades from the IBMA, SPBGMA, Dove Awards, and the Inspirational Country Music Association, including being named Bluegrass Artists of the Year at the Absolutely Gospel Music Awards.

Their hit “He’s Getting Me Ready,” featuring The Oak Ridge Boys, held the #1 spot on the Bluegrass/Gospel chart for a record-breaking five months. Other collaborations include the award-nominated “Jordan,” with Ricky Skaggs, Mo Pitney, and Mark Fain.

Darin & Brooke have performed at the Grand Ole Opry over 55 times, and their music continues to dominate Billboard, Bluegrass Today, and Gospel charts. They’ve been featured on CMT, PBS’s Mountain Stage, Music City Roots, and Larry’s Country Diner, earning fans across genres and generations.

SAMPLE SONG

Their live show is a joyful celebration of faith, love, and tradition, with songs that uplift and harmonies that stop time. Join us for an unforgettable night with two of bluegrass music’s most luminous stars.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week 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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Folk Club Kids
2025-10-22 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-10-15 10:30 - 11:00
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/

Stream live and free on Facebook and Youtube!

Join Dan Berggren and Drank the Gold’s Oona Grady and James Gascoyne for Folk Club Kids: a free weekly interactive concert series for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children are treated to 30 minutes of live music in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Inspire a love of music, community, and togetherness each week, learn, play, make friends and have fun!

This program is made possible by the generous support of Kevin & Claudia Bright.

#youthclass

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Rochmon Record Club: “Introducing The Beatles” & “Meet The Beatles”
2025-10-21 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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On Tuesday, October 21, Rochmon Record Club will converge at Caffe’ Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, to listen to and learn about the first 2 Beatles albums released in the United States, “Introducing The Beatles” & “Meet The Beatles”. Doors open at 6:30, and the show begins at 7 pm with a live audio & video presentation by Chuck Vosganian aka “Rochmon”.

October is Beatles’ month at the Rochmon Record Club and this year Rochmon goes crazy! 2 Beatles albums! 1 Show! Part 1 is dedicated to The Beatles first album released in the United States, “Introducing The Beatles”, which includes six covers of many of the boy’s favorite songs including, Goffin & King’s “Chains”, Burt Bacharach’s “Baby It’s You”, The Isley Brothers' “Twist and Shout” and six Lennon and McCartney originals including, “Please Please Me” “I Saw Her Standing There” and “Do You Want To Know a Secret”. Part 2 will feature The Beatles second release in the United States and their first on Capitol Records, “Meet The Beatles” which features the hits, “I Want to Hold Your Hand”, “It Won’t Be Long”, “All I’ve Got To Do”, “All My Loving”, and 8 more. 24 classic Beatles recordings spread over 2 albums, and as if that wasn’t enough, Rochmon will have some surprises in store!

A Rochmon Record Club Listening Party informs and deepens our understanding of the history of the individual performers, songs, and stories that went into the making of this classic album. By listening together, we hear the music again for the first time. Rochmon Record Club takes place on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at Caffe’ Lena in Saratoga Springs.

For Rochmaniacs at a distance, Rochmon Record Club will also be streaming live on Caffe’ Lena TV. Streaming tickets at caffelena.tv

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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Open Mic
2025-10-20 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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OPEN MIC NIGHT
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.
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.
Full table service (see menu). 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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Mark Erelli
2025-10-19 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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With a career spanning over two decades, Mark Erelli has carved out a reputation as one of Americana’s most insightful and versatile singer-songwriters. Blending rock, folk, and roots with lyrical craftsmanship and intricate guitar work, his music is equally powerful whether whispered in a ballad or shouted through an anthem.

Erelli has released 13 solo albums, performed with his bluegrass supergroup Barnstar!, and supported artists like Marc Cohn, Paula Cole, and Josh Ritter. He’s also produced two acclaimed albums for GRAMMY-winner Lori McKenna.

In 2020, Erelli was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease. His response—both personal and artistic—has been profound. His latest album, Lay Your Darkness Down, reckons with vulnerability, resilience, and hope, and has earned praise for its depth and beauty.

SAMPLE SONG

Rolling Stone Country, NPR, and Folk Alley have all recognized Erelli’s ability to break hearts and lift spirits in the same breath. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this is a performance that promises emotional resonance, masterful musicianship, and a reminder of music’s power to illuminate the human experience.

Can't make it in person? Can't make it 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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Michael Jerling
2025-10-18 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Born and raised in Illinois, songwriter Michael Jerling became involved with music while helping to run the campus coffeehouse at the University of Wisconsin. Now settled in Saratoga Springs, Jerling has been a noted artist on the club, college and festival circuits of North America. His butterscotch baritone voice is backed up with first-rate lyrical sense, impressive musicianship – borrowing from blues, rock, country and R&B – with consummate skill on six & twelve string guitars, harmonica and mandolin, all buoyed by his dry sense of humor.

A keen student of the good and ghastly in American life, Michael weaves themes like a novelist, evoking our shortcomings and dreams without yielding to cynicism or sentimentality. Often praised as a “songwriter’s songwriter” who composes in styles influenced by the wealth of American music, he has been characterized as an artist who performs extraordinary songs with the uncommon ability to deliver them to an audience with power and grace.

The press raves: “Stronger than new rope … especially recommended to fans of Gorka, Greg Brown, Dave Alvin or any other real smart people who make real good music” (Icon, Iowa City). Request magazine writes “He’s got the literate humor and eclectic taste of Lyle Lovett … yet a skewed vision all his own.” And from The Boston Globe: “With a subtle but encyclopedic command of American styles and rhythms, a captivating melodic sense, and incisive, clever lyrics, he is as supple a song craftsman as any riding the folk boards today.”

Jerling was a winner of the prestigious New Folk competition at the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas. His song “Long Black Wall” is included on the Smithsonian Folkways CD celebrating twenty years of Fast Folk. 2014’s Music Here Tonight was recorded live at Caffè Lena.

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week 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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Guitar Workshop with Ron Gordon: Roots of Country Guitar
2025-10-18 13:00 - 15:00
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Learn the roots of country guitar with Ron Gordon! Explore bass runs, the Carter Scratch, Jimmy Rodgers’ blues, and Woody Guthrie’s timeless style in this hands-on workshop. Perfect for players of all levels who want to dig into the heart of American roots music.

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Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Apr 6 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

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Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Apr 13 • 7 PM

Paul McKenna
2025-10-17 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Scotland’s Paul McKenna has long been ranked among its finest singers and songwriters, armed with a powerful yet intensely emotive voice and passionate social conscience, often expressed through his songs, a combination that’s brought frequent comparisons to the great Dick Gaughan.

Cutting his teeth as the front person for The Paul Mckenna Band, Paul travelled the world sharing his songs and his stories for over a decade, playing many of the biggest venues and releasing 5 albums. Having honed his craft, he is now touring on his own.

Paul was a featured artist at the world-renowned Transatlantic Sessions in 2019. Alongside Cara Dillon, Tim O’Brien, Molly Tuttle, and the multi-talented house band, he performed a string of shows across the UK.

2024 saw Paul McKenna team up with long term friends, and traditional music powerhouse, Ímar to release a brand-new song titled “Always You”. The single was an immediate hit with fans and was released in time for Paul to join Ímar on their tour of Ireland and perform the song with them on each night of the tour.

Performance highlights over recent years include Edmonton Folk Festival, Winnipeg Folk Festival, Milwaukee Irish Fest, Woodford Folk Festival, and regular appearances at Celtic Connections.

Paul has shared the stage with many great artists over the years including Dick Gaughan, Dougie MacLean, Archie Fisher, Dave Gunning, The East Pointers, Karine Polwart, Cara Dillon, Karan Casey and Billy Bragg, to name a few.

SAMPLE SONG

It’s an evening of folk music at its most honest—personal, rooted, and meant to be shared.

﻿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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

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Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Apr 6 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

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Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Apr 20 • 7 PM

Bright Series: Spencer LaJoye
2025-10-16 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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With crystalline vocals, masterful looping, and a weathered acoustic guitar, Spencer LaJoye creates music that disarms, delights, and connects. They sing with a coy smile, a wink to the back row, and the conviction that art can change the world simply by making us feel something.

A coast-to-coast singer/songwriter and vocal loop artist with Midwest roots, Spencer is a classically-trained violinist, Americana enthusiast, and theology graduate whose artistry blends folk, pop, and theatrical storytelling. Since their viral 2021 anthem “Plowshare Prayer”, Spencer has built a devoted following around the globe, recognized for their unflinching songwriting and pastoral stage presence.

Spencer’s performances—whether in theaters, listening rooms, folk festivals, queer clubs, or church sanctuaries—keep audiences laughing one moment and weeping the next. Their catalog spans a decade, from early autobiographical folk/pop to the 2023 EP Plant a Piano, an intimate collection of vocally theatrical piano ballads about change, beauty, and impermanence. Along the way, they’ve won the Kerrville New Folk Songwriting Competition, earned Folk Alliance International official showcase artist status, and released music that has resonated deeply across diverse communities.

SAMPLE SONG

Experience music that invites reflection, sparks joy, and reminds us of the beauty in being fully human together.

﻿The Bright Series is made possible by a generous gift from Kevin & Claudia Bright.

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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 6 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 20 • 7 PM

Bluegrass Jam
2025-10-15 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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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
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

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Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 6 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 13 • 7 PM

"Where the Music Never Dies: A Celebration of Joel Moss"
2025-10-14 17:30 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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"Where the Music Never Dies: A Celebration of Joel Moss" will take place at Caffe Lena on Tuesday, October 14. EVERYBODY IS INVITED!

We will begin gathering at Trask Memorial Staircase at the south end of Congress Park at 4:30 PM.

A 2nd Line parade led by New Orleans musician Glen David Andrews will take off at 5 PM and we'll clap, dance and sing our way to Caffe Lena.

Music and speakers start at the Caffe–indoors and out–at 5:30 PM and end at 9 PM.

There will be an outdoor video screen to share what's happening inside, and the whole event will be live streamed on YouTube and Caffe Lena TV. Bring your love and your memories, and come celebrate Joel!

If you would like to play or speak at the Celebration, please fill out this form: https://forms.gle/RQj6s8Tzsmh33GaL6

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

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Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 6 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 13 • 7 PM

Open Mic
2025-10-13 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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OPEN MIC NIGHT
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.
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.
Full table service (see menu). 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: 6:00 pm

Similar Events

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Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 6 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 20 • 7 PM

Peak Jazz Series: Mercer Paterson Quintet
2025-10-12 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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The Mercer Patterson Quintet is a high-energy contemporary jazz ensemble that’s turning heads everywhere they play—including at Caffè Lena’s Sing in the Streets festival, where they wowed audiences with their fearless improvisation, intricate arrangements, and infectious groove.

Hailing from the Metro-Detroit area, this dynamic group blends a variety of original compositions—penned by all members—with influences as wide-ranging as Herbie Hancock’s harmonic genius, Frank Zappa’s adventurous spirit, and Steve Lehman’s rhythmic sophistication.

Formed during their freshman year at the University of Michigan, the quintet has honed its sound under the guidance of jazz greats Terrell Stafford, Robert Hurst, Brian Lynch, Andy Milne, Ellen Rowe, Caroline Davis, and Chuck Bergeron. Their collaborative approach has led to a distinctive voice in the modern jazz landscape—fresh, daring, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Mercer Patterson (piano), Connor Hoyt (saxophone), Ryan Venora (trumpet), Jack Nissen (bass), and Philip Buchman (drums) have brought their music to stages across the country, from the Detroit Jazz Festival and Aspen-Snowmass Jazz to New York’s Shapeshifter Lab, San Francisco’s Mr. Tipples, and beyond.

SAMPLE SONG

Wherever they go, the Mercer Patterson Quintet delivers an exhilarating live experience that blends technical mastery with pure joy in music-making. Don’t miss this chance to catch one of jazz’s most exciting young bands—right here at Caffè Lena.

The Peak Jazz Series focuses on ensembles that lean toward cool jazz, fusion, and funk, offering audiences a dynamic and diverse jazz experience.

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

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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

Get Tickets

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 6 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 13 • 7 PM

The Gibson Brothers
2025-10-11 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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There’s a reason Ricky Skaggs pulled Eric and Leigh Gibson off the Ryman Auditorium stage two decades ago to offer to produce their debut—and why Grammy-winning producers like David Ferguson, Dan Auerbach, and Jerry Douglas have all signed on to work with them. The Gibson Brothers are the real deal. They can pick. They can sing. And they can write a great country song.

With a résumé boasting nearly every bluegrass award imaginable, albums on premier Americana labels like Sugar Hill and Rounder, and songs recorded by legends such as Del McCoury, the Gibson Brothers have carved out a singular space in roots music. Their latest album, Darkest Hour, produced by dobro master Jerry Douglas, captures their seamless move between high-octane bluegrass and what Auerbach once dubbed “country soul.”

Growing up on a dairy farm in northern New York gave Eric and Leigh a unique perspective that permeates their songwriting—stories shaped by rural life, road miles, and the ties of family. Jerry Douglas tapped both new and decades-old originals for Darkest Hour, surrounding the brothers with an all-star lineup including Mike Barber, Justin Moses, Eamon McGloughlin, John Gardner, Guthrie Trapp, and Todd Parks.

From their tight harmonies—Leigh’s voice as luminous as his duet with Alison Krauss on “I Feel the Same Way as You”—to their easy command of both traditional and modern sounds, the Gibson Brothers bring warmth, wit, and deep musicality to every stage they grace.

SAMPLE SONG

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.

Don’t miss this chance to experience two of the most respected voices in bluegrass and Americana today—right here at Caffè Lena.

﻿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: 6:00 pm

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 6 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Open Mic

Multi-act Program Open Mic

event

Apr 20 • 7 PM
