New York State Writers Institute Fiction and Poetry Reading
2026-06-25 20:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Rock

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Rosanna Warren has won the Lamont Poetry Prize, and has been honored with the Award of Merit in Poetry from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. She is the author of six books of poems, most recently, So Forth (Norton, 2020), as well as the biography, Max Jacob: A Life in Art and Letters. (Norton, 2020). Harold Bloom writes: “Warren is an important poet, beyond the achievement of all but a handful of living American poets.” And Charles Simic writes in The NY Review of Books: “Her work has become stronger and stronger …. masterful and ambitious.” Rosanna Warren is Emeritus Professor at University of Chicago. Megha Majumdar is the author of the novel A Guardian and a Thief, which the New York Times Book Review described as "A true literary achievement . . . . Majumdar creates a tense and deeply compassionate portrait of desperation, fear and the combined selflessness and selfishness of parenthood." Her first book, ABurning, was named one of the best books of the year by The Washington Post, The New York Times, NPR, The Atlantic, Vogue, and TIME Magazine. Writing of it in the New Yorker, James Wood called A Burning, "Masterly. . . . the elements of a thriller are transmuted into prismatic portraiture. . . . Her spare plot moves with arrowlike determination.” Born and raised in Kolkata, India, Megha now lives in New York. The authors are in residence at Skidmore College for the New York State Summer Writers Institute, sponsored by the Office of Special Programs. ​​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
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

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Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
2026-06-26 12:00 - 13:00
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Bring your lunch & listen to a playlist curated by a Caffe Lena Community member. For the June edition of the Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour, our playlist curator will be our beloved Director of Finance & Operations, Mateo Vosganian! 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
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

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Gail Ann Dorsey
2026-06-26 20:00 - 22:00
Other Rock

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Philadelphia-born singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Gail Ann Dorsey is widely recognized as one of the most respected bass players and vocalists in modern music.

Many fans know her from her longtime collaboration with David Bowie, where she held the bass chair in Bowie’s touring band from 1995–2004. Her powerful voice was featured in live performances of the Queen/Bowie classic “Under Pressure,” and she contributed to Bowie’s albums Earthling, Reality, and The Next Day, along with several archival releases.

Dorsey’s career has also included recording and touring with an impressive range of artists including Thomas Dolby, Seal, Gwen Stefani, Joan Osborne, Gang of Four, Lenny Kravitz, and Tears for Fears. She is currently a featured vocalist with Blackstar Symphony, led by saxophonist Donny McCaslin.

Alongside these collaborations, Dorsey has continued her own work as a songwriter and performer, releasing the albums The Corporate World, Rude Blue, and I Used to Be…

Her new record, The Appearance of Life, to be released in late Spring.

SAMPLE SONG

Don’t miss the chance to hear this remarkable musician up close in the intimate setting of Caffè Lena.

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
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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The Seldom Scene
2026-06-28 15:00 - 17:00
Rock

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For more than 50 years, The Seldom Scene has helped shape what modern bluegrass can be.
Formed in 1971, the band built its reputation by balancing traditional bluegrass with a broader songbook, bringing in material from outside the genre and treating it with the same care and precision as the standards. That approach, once unusual, helped open the door for the wider range of influences heard in bluegrass today.
The current lineup, Lou Reid (guitar, mandolin), Ronnie Simpkins (bass), Ron Stewart (banjo, fiddle), Fred Travers (dobro), and Clay Hess (guitar), continues that tradition. The playing is tight and rooted, with a focus on strong arrangements, clear vocals, and the interplay that comes from years of experience.
Over the decades, The Seldom Scene has remained a steady presence in bluegrass, known for bringing new songs into the tradition while keeping the core sound intact. Their interpretations, whether of classic country, folk, or original material, reflect a band that understands the form and knows how to stretch it without losing its center.
SAMPLE SONG
NEWS PIECE
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
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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The Seldom Scene
2026-06-28 19:00 - 21:00
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Share:

For more than 50 years, The Seldom Scene has helped shape what modern bluegrass can be.
Formed in 1971, the band built its reputation by balancing traditional bluegrass with a broader songbook, bringing in material from outside the genre and treating it with the same care and precision as the standards. That approach, once unusual, helped open the door for the wider range of influences heard in bluegrass today.
The current lineup, Lou Reid (guitar, mandolin), Ronnie Simpkins (bass), Ron Stewart (banjo, fiddle), Fred Travers (dobro), and Clay Hess (guitar), continues that tradition. The playing is tight and rooted, with a focus on strong arrangements, clear vocals, and the interplay that comes from years of experience.
Over the decades, The Seldom Scene has remained a steady presence in bluegrass, known for bringing new songs into the tradition while keeping the core sound intact. Their interpretations, whether of classic country, folk, or original material, reflect a band that understands the form and knows how to stretch it without losing its center.
SAMPLE SONG
NEWS PIECE
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
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Open Mic
2026-06-29 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-13 19:00 - 21:00
Other Rock

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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
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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May 31 • 7 PM

Sober Salon
2026-06-30 19:00 - 21:00
Rock

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This quarterly event gives people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction the opportunity to share their creative work in a happy, drug-and-alcohol-free setting with the support of Caffe Lena's professional sound, lights and stage. Sober Salon is specifically for people in recovery. It welcomes any and all art, crafts, and performances. Bring a sweater you knitted, a painting, a magic trick, a comedy routine, and certainly feel welcome to bring music and poetry! Truly, any artistic work is welcome. Art helps all of us express difficult emotions, and sharing it on stage helps us build trust in others. We hope that Sober Salon will help you move forward in your recovery and connect with a new, healthy circle of friends.
Things to Know:

Our host is Erin Harkes, singer, songwriter, comedian, publisher of Metroland Now and 16 years sober.
Doors will open at 6:30PM and sign up will be on a first come first serve basis.
Presentations will be five minutes max.
The kitchen will be open for service.
We have a piano and a variety of instruments, including guitars you can use.
We will not offer a screen for displaying photos, but we will enable people to play backing tracks to sing with.

We can't wait to welcome you!
Admission is free thanks to the support of the Victor and Helen Geisel Foundation.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-07-02 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-30 13:00 - 15:00
Other Rock Storytelling

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All are Welcome!
WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS,
AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!
This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation!
THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!
SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person
Our jams are all about sharing songs, making new friends, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music.
ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic.
Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!
What is a Slow Jam?
It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G, A, D, C major, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”, “e”, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Playwright's Jam
2026-07-05 13:30 - 16:00, 2026-08-02 13:30 - 16:00
Other Rock

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

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

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

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

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

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

Playwrights should bring a highlighted script for each of their actors and one extra for stage directions
Bring a short scene (7-8 minutes). Cast your actors from the audience, including your fellow playwrights. Give them brief directions and then put them on stage to read your script. We’ll go around the room after the reading and let everyone give a “popcorn” reaction (one word!).
Each meeting will include 6 or 7 scenes selected at random from those submitted. After the readings we’ll have time to hang out and get acquainted.
This event will be co-hosted by Michael Wells-Oakes and Vivian Nesbitt
Playwright Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Summer Camp: Youth Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
2026-07-06 09:30 - 15:30, 2026-07-08 09:30 - 15:30, 2026-07-10 09:30 - 12:30
Rock

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Youth Folk Ensemble Summer Camp with Oona and James
and special guest Deb Cavanaugh.
Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together. Building on the format of the weekly After School Youth Folk Ensembles offered during the school year at Caffe Lena, this summer camp is a Monday through Friday day camp meeting July 6 – 10, 2025. 9:30am – 3:30pm (Friday 9:30am – 12:30pm)
Three hours each morning and midday 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. Each day will finish with extracurricular activities including lunch in congress park! At the end of the final day there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends.
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
Scholarships are available as well as instrument loans.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

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Other Rock

event

Apr 21 • 7 PM

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May 7 • 7 PM

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Open Mic
2026-07-06 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-20 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-08-03 19:00 - 21:00
Other Rock Storytelling

Share:

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
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Dan Berggren & Jeannine Laverty

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event

Apr 19 • 2 PM

Caffè Lena

Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: The Who’s “Quadrophenia”

Other Rock

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Apr 21 • 7 PM

Summer Camp: Youth Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
2026-07-07 09:30 - 15:30
Other Rock

Share:

Youth Folk Ensemble Summer Camp with Oona and James

and special guest Deb Cavanaugh.

Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together. Building on the format of the weekly After School Youth Folk Ensembles offered during the school year at Caffe Lena, this summer camp is a Monday through Friday day camp meeting July 6 – 10, 2025. 9:30am – 3:30pm (Friday 9:30am – 12:30pm)

Three hours each morning and midday 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. Each day will finish with extracurricular activities including lunch in congress park! At the end of the final day there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends.

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

Scholarships are available as well as instrument loans.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Cristina Vane

American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

event

May 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: Led Zeppelin II

Other Rock Storytelling

event

May 19 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Super 400

Rock

event

May 31 • 7 PM

Summer Camp: Youth Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
2026-07-09 09:30 - 15:30
Other Rock Storytelling

Share:

Youth Folk Ensemble Summer Camp with Oona and James
and special guest Deb Cavanaugh.
Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together. Building on the format of the weekly After School Youth Folk Ensembles offered during the school year at Caffe Lena, this summer camp is a Monday through Friday day camp meeting July 6 – 10, 2025. 9:30am – 3:30pm (Friday 9:30am – 12:30pm)
Three hours each morning and midday 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. Each day will finish with extracurricular activities including lunch in congress park! At the end of the final day there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends.
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
Scholarships are available as well as instrument loans.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

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Apr 7 • 7 PM

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Dan Berggren & Jeannine Laverty

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Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: The Who’s “Quadrophenia”

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Apr 21 • 7 PM

School of Music Slow Jam
2026-07-09 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-23 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-06 13:00 - 15:00
Other Rock

Share:

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

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

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Songwriting Club
2026-07-11 10:00 - 12:00
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I'm happy to announce that Songwriting Club is back at Caffè Lena with a more structured time slot. "Second Saturday Songwriting Club" will meet (you guessed it) every second Saturday! Starting January 10th 10am – 12pm. Hosted by Reese Fulmer and Girl Blue! The club will meet monthly with special guests being a more "special" event. Bring your pens, pencils, instruments, thinking caps, favorite songs.
January 10th
10am – 12pm
$5 donation
cookies and coffee by donation

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-07-16 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!
This weekly program is made possible by the generous support of PHLY Foundation!
THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!
SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person
Our jams are all about sharing songs, making new friends, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music.
ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic.
Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!
What is a Slow Jam?
It is a group of string instrument players and singers who get together to have fun making music. The “slow” modifier indicates that it is targeted to the following musicians: people who have been playing solo and want to get used to playing in a group setting: people who have just learned how to play and want to play with others; people who have instruments that have been gathering dust for a “few” years; experienced players who are trying out playing instruments other than their primary instrument; people who are comfortable playing their instrument but want to become more comfortable singing/leading a song.. The tunes are played at 80 to 110 BPM and usually in basic keys such a G, A, D, C major, but it always sounds great to play in some minor keys such as “a”, “e”, and “g”. We will try to avoid “jam busters.” It is our hope that after this experience you will feel more comfortable playing at the many open jams and open mics that can be found in our area.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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May 19 • 7 PM

Open Mic
2026-07-27 19:00 - 21:00
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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
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Summer Camp: Troubadour in Training with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
2026-08-03 09:30 - 15:30, 2026-08-05 09:30 - 15:30
Rock

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Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 12-17 (or by instructor permission) to learn music in a dynamic group setting. This camp is for students who already have some experience singing songs and playing string instruments (familiar with the keys of D, G, and C).
In Troubadours in Training camp we will explore:
-How to find and build a repertoire of songs and tunes
-Expanding vocabulary on one's instrument
-Group and harmony singing
-Vocal technique
-Developing a sense of rhythm and groove
-Playing on stage and performance practice
-Songwriting and arranging
This summer camp is a Monday through Friday day camp meeting 9:30am-3:30pm. In this music intensive week we will learn so much after five days together! At the end of the final day there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends.
Scholarships are available as well as instrument loans.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: The Who’s “Quadrophenia”

Other Rock

event

Apr 21 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Cristina Vane

American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

event

May 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: Led Zeppelin II

Other Rock Storytelling

event

May 19 • 7 PM

Summer Camp: Troubadour in Training with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
2026-08-04 09:30 - 15:30
Other Rock

Share:

Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 12-17 (or by instructor permission) to learn music in a dynamic group setting. This camp is for students who already have some experience singing songs and playing string instruments (familiar with the keys of D, G, and C).

In Troubadours in Training camp we will explore:

-How to find and build a repertoire of songs and tunes

-Expanding vocabulary on one's instrument

-Group and harmony singing

-Vocal technique

-Developing a sense of rhythm and groove

-Playing on stage and performance practice

-Songwriting and arranging

This summer camp is a Monday through Friday day camp meeting 9:30am-3:30pm. In this music intensive week we will learn so much after five days together! At the end of the final day there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends.

Scholarships are available as well as instrument loans.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

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Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Cristina Vane

American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

event

May 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

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Other Rock Storytelling

event

May 19 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

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May 31 • 7 PM

Summer Camp: Troubadour in Training with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
2026-08-06 09:30 - 15:30
Other Rock Storytelling

Share:

Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 12-17 (or by instructor permission) to learn music in a dynamic group setting. This camp is for students who already have some experience singing songs and playing string instruments (familiar with the keys of D, G, and C).
In Troubadours in Training camp we will explore:
-How to find and build a repertoire of songs and tunes
-Expanding vocabulary on one's instrument
-Group and harmony singing
-Vocal technique
-Developing a sense of rhythm and groove
-Playing on stage and performance practice
-Songwriting and arranging
This summer camp is a Monday through Friday day camp meeting 9:30am-3:30pm. In this music intensive week we will learn so much after five days together! At the end of the final day there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends.
Scholarships are available as well as instrument loans.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$16.27

General
$16.27

Child or Student
$16.27

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Apr 7 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Dan Berggren & Jeannine Laverty

Folk Singer Songwriter Storytelling

event

Apr 19 • 2 PM

Caffè Lena

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Other Rock

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