Caffè Lena

JAZZ at Caffè Lena : Chuck Lamb Special Guests Camille Thurman & Darrell Green
2025-05-13 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Bluegrass

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The JAZZ at Caffe Lena series is hosted by resident composer, pianist, and jazz master Chuck Lamb, with support from music producer Joel Moss. Each month, Lamb invites a top-flight jazz artist to join his trio on stage. Lamb, a member of the Brubeck Brothers Quartet since 2002, is not only an exciting and emotive pianist but also a prolific composer of jazz, fusion, classical, and world music. Through these collaborations, the artists stretch their creative boundaries, exploring new musical landscapes and creating spontaneous, exhilarating performances. The show for May is Chuck​ Lamb and his special guest​s, saxophonist and vocalist Camille Thurman and Darrell Green, one of today’s most sought-after jazz drummers. Camille Thurman effortlessly pairs masterful saxophone artistry with a commanding vocal presence. A NAACP Image Award nominee and Downbeat Critics Poll Rising Star, she is reshaping the landscape of modern jazz. Thurman made history as the first woman in 30 years to tour internationally with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and her performances have captivated audiences at some of the world’s most esteemed venues, including the Library of Congress. With a sound that bridges jazz tradition and forward-thinking innovation, she honors the greats while carving out her own distinct voice. As a composer, performer, and educator, Thurman is both a force on stage and a guiding influence for the next generation of musicians. Embodying eﬀortless technical mastery and spirit-filled rhythms deeply rooted in the modern post-bop tradition, Darrell Green developed a style retaining elements of both the gospel and classical lineage while taking listeners on a spiritual journey. Many have compared his rhythmic sense of style, inventiveness, and feel to the likes of Elvin Jones, Tony Williams, and Art Blakey. A respected bandleader and sideman, Darrell has toured and performed in notable concert halls and music festivals worldwide, including Jazz At Lincoln Center, The Blue Note, The Kennedy Center, Alice Tully Hall, and the Montreaux Jazz Festival. Calille Thurman, Darrell Green and Chuck Lamb — these artists together will deliver an evening of lush standards, electrifying originals, and soul-deep improvisation—offering a rare opportunity to hear jazz at its most powerful and personal. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind collaboration on the Lena stage. SAMPLE SONG Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. ﻿

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Doors Open: 7:30 pm

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$23.86

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$13.56

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Folk Heritage Series: The Seldom Scene

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Jun 28 • 7 PM

Open Mic
2025-05-12 19:00 - 21:00
Bluegrass

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OPEN MIC NIGHTSIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PMPlay 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 HOSTSFirst 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 serveYou 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 USIf you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: Reese @caffelena.org

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Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2025-05-12 13:00 - 14:30
American Roots Bluegrass

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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – The purpose of this is 4 week, in person, class is for everyone to improve their mandolin skills. Each week we will spend time on right and left hand techniques, learn some new tunes and play Mandolin Ensemble pieces. This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 12 students. The class will run from 1:00 till 2:30 on May 5, 12, 19 and June 2. 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.

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Doors Open: 7:30 pm

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$26.03

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$29.28

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$14.64

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Bluegrass Duets with Alan Epstein and Bruce Thompson
2025-05-12 10:00 - 12:30, 2025-05-05 10:00 - 12:30
American Roots Celtic Folk

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The purpose of this class is to allow acoustic musicians to work on Bluegrass Duet repertoire with a musical partner. Early groups such as the Blue Sky Boys, the Monroe Brothers, the Louvin Brothers, and the Delmore Brothers helped develop the roots of the sound that we know as bluegrass. Each week we will listen to recorded examples of these and other duet and bluegrass artists and will work on singing and playing some of their best known songs.

This class is NOT intended for beginning musicians looking to learn the basics of their instruments. Rather, it is aimed at those who can play their acoustic instrument, (guitar, banjo, bass, fiddle, mandolin, dobro) and are interested in exploring the music's roots to help them fine tune their sound with a duet partner.

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Doors Open: 6:30 pm

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Drank the Gold
2025-05-11 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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“At times, they dived into the track of the moon in the dark sea water and opened their mouths to swallow the silver. At times, they plunged into the path of the sun in the green-blue ocean and opened their mouths and drank the gold.”

— Pat O’Shea, The Hounds of the Morrigan

Rooted in Irish, old-time, and North Atlantic folk traditions, Drank The Gold brings a vibrant, heartfelt approach to traditional tunes and songs. Featuring Oona Grady (fiddle, viola, vocals) and James Gascoyne (guitar, banjo, vocals), this Upstate New York duo blends rich harmonies, driving rhythms, and fresh interpretations of centuries-old dance tunes.

Oona honed her fiddle skills in Cork, Ireland, steeped in Irish traditions before returning to Ithaca, NY, where she expanded her repertoire to include old-time and Cajun music. James, originally from Kentucky, brings a love of genre-blending and a deep appreciation for both American folk and Irish dance music. Together, their music is as authentic as it is dynamic.

Beyond the stage, Oona and James are essential members of the Caffè Lena family. They teach and mentor at the Caffè Lena School of Music, inspire young musicians through Folk Club Kids, and regularly sit in with artists on our stage, always ready to lend their talent and energy to the community. Their dedication to keeping folk traditions alive—both in performance and through education—makes them true ambassadors of the music we love.

Join us for a rare and special evening as Oona and James take center stage as Drank The Gold—sharing the music, heart, and joy that they so generously give to our community.

SAMPLE SONG

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

﻿

Price

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$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

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Online School of Music: Gretchen Peters Songwriting Intensive
2025-05-11 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-05-04 14:00 - 16:00
American Roots Celtic Folk

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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 April 27 – May 18, 2025

Part Two: Sundays June 8, 15, 22, 29, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Class Description

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

In Part One, we’ll focus on:

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

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

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

Bring to our first class

Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes

An open heart and mind

How to prepare:

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

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$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

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House of Hamill
2025-05-10 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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From serendipitous beginnings to becoming a fixture on festival stages across the U.S., House of Hamill is a band that thrives on unexpected magic and undeniable chemistry.

What started as a chance collaboration between Rose Baldino (Burning Bridget Cleary) and Brian Buchanan (Enter the Haggis) has blossomed into a powerhouse trio with Caroline Browning on bass, delivering soaring harmonies, masterful musicianship, and electrifying energy. Their performances seamlessly blend original jigs and reels, reimagined folk ballads, and crowd-favorite covers, all wrapped in an engaging stage presence that makes every show a joyous occasion.

And, they continue to make waves in the folk music world, earning Grand Prize honors in the 2024 John Lennon Songwriting Contest for their original song Banks of the Brandywine. Their all violin cover of Sweet Child O’ Mine has captivated audiences worldwide, amassing over 16 million views and 400,000 shares on Facebook. Their latest album, Wildfire, marks their most compelling work yet, featuring dynamic songwriting, intricate arrangements, and irresistible hooks that capture the vibrant energy of their live performances.

Whether they’re ripping through a fiery set, captivating with their harmonies, or making audiences laugh with road stories, House of Hamill delivers an unforgettable live experience.

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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The Wildwoods
2025-05-09 20:00 - 21:30
American Roots Celtic Folk

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Lose yourself in the rich, inspired harmonies and lush sounds of The Wildwoods—where the heart of folk meets the soul of Americana.

Step into the heart of American roots music with The Wildwoods, a dynamic folk/Americana trio hailing from Lincoln, Nebraska. Comprised of husband-and-wife duo Noah and Chloe Gose and their long-time friend Andrew Vaggalis, The Wildwoods craft an intricate sound that blends heartfelt harmonies with lush violin, warm guitar tones, and a steady bass foundation.

Their music draws inspiration from artists like Nickel Creek, Watchhouse, and Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, yet their sound remains distinctly their own—a rich tapestry of nature-inspired melodies and personal storytelling. Over the years, they’ve shared stages with Mighty Poplar, Sierra Ferrell, and Aiofe O’Donovan and performed at renowned festivals like Summerfest and FreshGrass.

With accolades including a finalist spot at the FreshGrass Music Festival Band Competition and recognition as "Best Band" by the Lincoln Journal Star, The Wildwoods are quickly solidifying their place in the modern folk landscape. Their most recent album, Foxfield Saint John (2023), showcases the band’s evolution, pushing musical boundaries while staying true to the heartfelt authenticity that defines them.

Don’t miss your chance to experience The Wildwoods live at Caffè Lena, where every note tells a story and every harmony feels like home.

Sample Song

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

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Angelina Valente
2025-05-08 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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Angelina Valente’s singer-songwriter/indie folk is intimate, honest, and deeply moving. With a voice that feels both delicate and powerful, she weaves songs that capture the quiet beauty of life, love, and self-discovery. Influenced by her small-town roots (she is a native of Galway, NY) and love of nature, her music blends poetic storytelling with piano and ukulele, creating a sound that is both timeless and refreshingly modern. She creates a captivating, intimate experience that draws audiences in and leaves them inspired.

In just five years, Angelina has gone from open-mic nights to selling out shows across the Capital Region. Her journey has taken her to some of the country’s most esteemed studios, including Village Studios in L.A. and Atlantic Records Studio in NYC. Her latest album, Sing (released in November 2023), earned her three major accolades: Songwriter of the Year, Album of the Year, and Artist of the Year for the New York Capital Region.

“Authentic & sincere” – Her music is deeply personal, with a true and honest voice.

Join us for a beautiful evening of storytelling, song, and heartfelt connection with Angelina Valente.

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week of access with your live stream ticket.

﻿

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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School of Music Slow Jam
2025-05-08 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-05-01 13:00 - 15:00
American Roots Celtic Folk

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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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2025-05-08 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-05-01 09:00 - 12:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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Guitar Workshop

Level 1 and 2

Cost $195 for all 10 sessions. Drop ins $25/per session if space allows

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

Bruce Thompson teaches guitar workshops and private lessons at the Caffe. Bruce started playing music in elementary school, first on violin and later on guitar and dobro. Influenced by acoustic folk and bluegrass and a love for improvisation, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Composition at the Berklee College of Music and played various music styles in the Boston area for ten years. After moving to Saratoga County, NY he raised a family and made music at community, family, and school events. He currently plays in the band Uken Brew and is a fixture in the capital district bluegrass community.

﻿

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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May 3 • 7 PM

Poetry Open Mic Featuring Leslie B. Neustadt & Richard Michelson
2025-05-07 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Celtic Folk

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Leslie B. Neustadt is a poet, collage artist and a retired attorney. She is the author of two poetry collections; The Sustenance of Stars (Kelsay Books, 2024) and Bearing Fruit: A Poetic Journey (Spirit Wind Books, 2014). Her work explores the beauty and power of the natural world, life’s joys and struggles, and is grounded in a commitment to human and civil rights Her poems have been published in a number of anthologies, including Veils, Halos & Shackles: International Poetry on the Oppression and Empowerment of Women; The Bloomsbury Anthology of Contemporary American Jewish Poetry; and Heels into the Soil: Stories & Poems Resisting the Silence. She is a board member of the International Women’s Writing Guild and chairs its program committee. She also produces a popular workshop series for the Guild which she created during the pandemic. Leslie lives in Niskayuna, NY with her husband, Gary Kronick.

Richard Michelson’s many books for children, teens and adults have been listed among the Ten Best of the Year by The New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and The New Yorker; and among the best Dozen of the Decade by Amazon.com. He has received a National Jewish Book Award and two Sydney Taylor Gold Medals (and two Silver) from the Association of Jewish Libraries. Michelson’s work was chosen to “highlight the literary culture and history of Massachusetts” at the 2018 Library of Congress National Book Festival in Washington DC. In 2019 he became the sixth recipient of the Samuel Minot Jones Award for Lifetime Literary Achievement. Michelson’s most recent poetry collection, Sleeping as Fast as I Can was one of 12 finalists for the Forward Indies Award (books published by independent presses). His previous collection, More Money than God, (University of Pittsburgh Press) was a finalist for the Paterson Prize. Michelson hosts Northampton Poetry Radio, and served two terms as Poet Laureate of Northampton, MA.

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.﻿

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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10 Week Spring After School Folk Ensembles
2025-05-07 14:30 - 17:30, 2025-04-30 14:30 - 17:30
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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Through our after school program, children aged 7 – 14 can study fiddle, guitar, ukulele, banjo, tin whistle, mandolin, bass, percussion and more. Each session consists of 10 weekly 45 minute lessons. Teachers Oona Grady and James Gascoyne will be leading the students in an ensemble format. Ensemble instills the camaraderie that is at the center of the Folk tradition. Ensemble encourages learning to hear and listen musically, and enables students to experience the interdependence of each note and strum within the group.

Classes start 2:45pm, 3:40pm and 4:25pm.

#youthclass

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

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Folk Club Kids
2025-05-07 10:30 - 11:00
American Roots Celtic Folk

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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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

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Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Stephanie Bandosik
2025-05-06 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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Stephanie Bandosik is a Mohawk Valley storyteller known for sharing heartfelt and inspirational stories. Stephanie began telling Haudenosaunee stories while serving as an Educator at the Iroquois Indian Museum in Howes Cave, NY and quickly became active in the Capital District InterFaith Storytelling Community. Stephanie’s approach to work and life is to focus on improving personal wellness, environmental sustainability, and community spirit.

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.

﻿

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

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May 3 • 7 PM

Open Mic
2025-05-05 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Celtic Folk

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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: Reese @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

Streaming

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May 7 • 7 PM

Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2025-05-05 13:00 - 14:30
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – The purpose of this is 4 week, in person, class is for everyone to improve their mandolin skills. Each week we will spend time on right and left hand techniques, learn some new tunes and play Mandolin Ensemble pieces. This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 12 students. The class will run from 1:00 till 2:30 on May 5, 12, 19 and June 2.

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.

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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View All

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Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine

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May 3 • 7 PM

The Resonant Rogues
2025-05-04 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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The Resonant Rogues’ dark Appalachian folk paints a picture of their lives in the mountains of Western North Carolina and on the road. Anchored by the songwriting duo of Sparrow Smith (banjo, accordion) and Keith Smith (guitar), they’ve traveled the byways and highways of America and crossed the oceans with instruments in tow. From riding freight trains to building their own homestead, the pair are no strangers to blazing unconventional trails.

The Rogues just released a new album, recorded in Nashville with renowned producer Andrija Tokic (Alabama Shakes, Hurray for the Riff Raff), featuring guest appearances from Sierra Ferrell, Benjamin Tod, John James Tourville (Deslondes), and Jason Dea West.

2025 Festivals include Merlefest, Blue Ox, Pickin in the Backwoods, Great River Folk Fest, and Muddy Roots.

“This is country music as classic as it comes.”-Holler Country

“Her soaring singing, playing the accordion, or clawhammer banjo- Sparrow is a talented force.” -Saving Country Music

“Their intense cohesion is so intertwined that it feels like they’re playing with one pair of hands.” –No Depression

“I urge you to get out and hear them” -Lonesome Highway

SAMPLE SONG

The Resonant Rogues show at Caffè Lena promises to be an intimate, soulful, and foot-stomping journey through the landscapes of folk, country, and timeless American storytelling.

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.

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Playwright's Jam
2025-05-04 13:30 - 16:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine

American Roots Folk Jazz

event

Apr 30 • 7 PM

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American Roots Celtic Folk

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May 3 • 7 PM

Kyran Daniel
2025-05-03 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Celtic Folk

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“An incredible force in music… always received with thunderous applause and standing ovations.” – Tommy Emmanuel

Guitarist, composer, and producer Kyran Daniel brings his distinctive style to Caffè Lena for an evening of intricate, expressive guitar music. His career began alongside Grammy nominee Tommy Emmanuel, leading to a full scholarship at Berklee College of Music and collaborations with artists like G Flip, Gretta Ray, and Grammy-winning producer Printz Board (Black Eyed Peas, Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson).

After years of producing and performing worldwide, Kyran has returned to his roots as a solo instrumentalist, crafting music that blends fingerstyle guitar, cinematic soundscapes, and global influences. His upcoming album, Like The Night Itself, features Tommy Emmanuel and Printz Board and showcases his thoughtful compositions and skilled musicianship.

Prepare to witness another in a line of incredible solo guitar players. Caffè Lena has recently brought you Yasmin Williams, Kaki King, Gareth Pearson, Daniel Champagne, and Christine Lenée, and now, Kyran Daniel will take the stage at Caffè Lena.

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.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine

American Roots Folk Jazz

event

Apr 30 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Roy Book Binder Tribute / Live Stream

American Roots Blues Country Folk

event

May 1 • 8 PM

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Bright Series: Cristina Vane

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May 7 • 7 PM

Little Folks Series featuring Deb Cavanaugh & Dandelion Wine
2025-05-03 15:00 - 16:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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Looking for a fun, interactive, and musical experience to share with your little ones? Deb Cavanaugh ( aka, Miss Deb) & Dandelion Wine bring their joyful, high-energy show to Caffè Lena’s Little Folks Series, blending folk, blues, rock, and a touch of musical magic to delight audiences of all ages!

Sing, dance, and laugh along, with mountain dulcimer, guitar, upright bass, and more, this dynamic group makes every performance an engaging adventure filled with fun songs, playful storytelling, and music that kids (and grown-ups!) will love.

Expect a mix of original tunes & familiar favorites – from classic folk songs to playful takes on beloved hits. Deb’s warm stage presence and deep connection to music make her a natural storyteller, and every show is an opportunity for kids to clap, sing, and maybe even try an instrument!

Deb Cavanaugh is a seasoned performer and music educator who has played everything from rock & roll to jazz and even sang in a choir directed by Duke Ellington. With Dandelion Wine, she creates a performance that is both musically rich and wonderfully interactive—making it a perfect first concert experience for young music lovers.

Join us for a morning of music, laughter, and family fun—because music is best when shared!

SAMPLE SONG

The Little Folks Series is made possible by the generous support of Kevin & Claudia Bright.

Can't make it in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine

American Roots Folk Jazz

event

Apr 30 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Roy Book Binder Tribute / Live Stream

American Roots Blues Country Folk

event

May 1 • 8 PM

Caffè Lena

Drank the Gold and Benny Bleu

American Roots Celtic Folk

event

May 3 • 7 PM

*CANCELED* Momentum Series: Joe Louis Walker
2025-05-02 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Celtic Folk

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*TONIGHT'S SHOW IS CANCELED DUE TO ILLNESS. ALL TICKETS HAVE BEEN REFUNDED TO THE ORIGINAL PURCHASE METHOD. Please contact Sales@caffelena.org with any questions.

Chick Corea glibly referred to him as "The Chick Corea of Blues," and Aretha Franklin called him "The Bluesman." Blues Hall of Famer Joe Louis Walker has an impressive list of credentials: a six-time Blues Music Award winner, nominee for the Contemporary Blues Grammy and a duet with B.B. King on his Grammy award-winning Blues Summit album. But that doesn’t come close to describing the euphoria-inducing, feel-good rollick of one of the greatest bluesmen in a generation. Billboard hailed his playing as “…gutbucket blues, joyous gospel, Rolling Stones-style rock crunch, and aching R&B. Walker’s guitar playing is fine and fierce.” NPR described Joe Louis Walker as “a legendary boundary-pushing icon of modern blues.”

There is no shortage of praise; Blues Revue calls Walker "one of contemporary blues' most dynamic and innovative, musicians releasing consistently exciting, soulful, heartfelt, and spellbinding music."

Living Blues stated, "His fretwork is indelibly stamped with his trademark blend of emotional heat and impeccable precision. Even at his most flamboyant, Walker sounds like he's playing ideas, not just notes."

Joe Louis Walker’s new album, Weight of the World (out this past February via Forty Below Records), is a bold testament to his genre-spanning mastery. Produced by Eric Corne, the album blends blues, soul, gospel, funk, and rock, showcasing Walker’s legendary versatility. He continues to push boundaries, proving that roots music only deepens with time.

A brilliantly lyrical guitarist, soulful singer, and prolific songwriter, Walker just might bring the house down.

SAMPLE SONG

Can’t make the show in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week of access with your live stream ticket.

Made possible by the generous support of Joe & Luann Conlon, in honor of Thom O'Neil.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

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Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine

American Roots Folk Jazz

event

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American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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May 7 • 7 PM

Tannahill Weavers
2025-05-01 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

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For over 50 years, the Tannahill Weavers have set the standard for fiery instrumentals, soul-stirring ballads, and the unmistakable spirit of Scotland. A Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame group, they bring a mix of bagpipes, fiddle, guitar, and powerful vocals, delivering music that is as timeless as it is electrifying.

Now joined by Iain MacGillivray, Scotland’s youngest Clan Leader, the Tannies continue to push the boundaries of tradition. A fluent Gaelic speaker and sought-after musician, Iain has contributed to hit productions like Outlander and Men in Kilts, adding even more depth to the band's legendary sound.

“An especially eloquent mixture of the old and the new.” – New York Times

“Seminal trailblazers… now also rank as national treasures.” – Glasgow Celtic Connections

Join us for a thrilling night of Celtic music, history, and humor!

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.

Price

Member
$21.69

General
$23.86

Child or Student
$11.93

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine

American Roots Folk Jazz

event

Apr 30 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Roy Book Binder Tribute / Live Stream

American Roots Blues Country Folk

event

May 1 • 8 PM

Caffè Lena

Drank the Gold and Benny Bleu

American Roots Celtic Folk

event

May 3 • 7 PM

Lena Go Round-Songwriters Showcase Hosted by Erin Harkes
2025-04-30 19:30 - 21:30
American Roots Celtic Folk

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For 65 years, Caffè Lena has been a place where great artists get their start—a stage where music is more than just sound; it’s stories, community, and discovery. The Lena Go Round continues that tradition, offering a monthly showcase of rising songwriting talent, curated and hosted by powerhouse musician, comedian, entrepreneur, and all around powerhouse, Erin Harkes.

What makes Lena Go Round special?

It is a curated lineup of the best up-and-coming songwriters—handpicked to deliver unforgettable performances
It is a true “in the round” experience—where songwriters take turns sharing their music and stories, creating an intimate and inspiring atmosphere
It is a direct link to Caffè Lena’s legacy—this stage launched careers, and Lena Go Round continues to nurture the next generation of folk, Americana, and indie artists

The lineup for April is Deanna DeLuke, Matt Griffin, Zan Strumfeld, and Erin! You will always hear something fresh, moving, and unforgettable. Whether you're a lifelong folk fan or just love discovering the next big thing, Lena Go Round is the place to be.

Special Congratulations to Zan Strumfield for winning two Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards< "The Eddies"! Zan won for Americana Artist of the Year and Album of the Year!

﻿Come be part of a Capital District must-see event, where the best of the best take the stage before the world catches on.

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine

American Roots Folk Jazz

event

Apr 30 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Roy Book Binder Tribute / Live Stream

American Roots Blues Country Folk

event

May 1 • 8 PM

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Cristina Vane

American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

event

May 7 • 7 PM

The Michael Mills Magic Show
2025-04-29 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Celtic Folk

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He's back! After a four-month run of shows at Caffe Lena in 2024, magician Mills returns with an all-new show featuring jaw-dropping surprises, quick wit, and an unforgettable good time.

Michael’s performance is playful, surprising, and packed with moments that will leave you laughing, amazed, and wondering if you can trust your own eyes.

This show is the perfect way to hit pause on life's to-do list and just have a great time. Bring your curiosity—and someone to share the 'Did that really just happen?!' moments with!

Recommended for ages 14+

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$23.86

General
$27.11

Child or Student
$13.56

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine

American Roots Folk Jazz

event

Apr 30 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Roy Book Binder Tribute / Live Stream

American Roots Blues Country Folk

event

May 1 • 8 PM

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Cristina Vane

American Roots Bluegrass Blues Rock

event

May 7 • 7 PM
