Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson
2026-03-25 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-01 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-08 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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Wednesday Night with Caffè Lena School of Music – March 11, 25 and April 1, 8. 7pm – 8pm $120 This course covers the basics of music theory for those who play music regularly but have limited or no knowledge of music theory. A basic understanding of music theory can help musicians at all levels learn faster, be more creative and communicate better with other musicians. Each week we will discuss a different aspect of music theory (i.e. rhythm, melody and harmony) and real world examples of how these concepts are applied. Experience level: All levels Instructor: Bruce Thompson Topics: Rhythm Concepts Intervals Major and Minor Scales Chords & Chord Progressions (Constructions and types) Notation and Musical forms

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-03-26 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-04-02 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-04-09 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. ﻿

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Folk Heritage Series: Andy Cohen, Eleanor Ellis & Bill Ellis
2026-03-26 19:00 - 21:00
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For fans of acoustic blues, it just doesn't get any better than this. Three towering talents take us on a rollicking tour through the Delta, the Piedmont, and the Paramount record catalog of the '20s and '30s, and pieces learned first-hand in the homes of the creators themselves. Eleanor Ellis is a celebrated master of country and Piedmont blues–one of the most significant women in the acoustic blues genre. She is a torchbearer especially for her friend, mentor and musical partner, blues & gospel singer and guitarist Flora Molton, with whom she recorded two albums: I Want to Be Ready to Hear God When He Calls and the eponymous Flora Molton, recorded for Radio France. Acclaimed Americana/Blues guitarist William Lee Ellis was named after his godfather, legendary bluegrass pioneer Bill Monroe. His father, Tony Ellis, was one of Monroe's Blue Grass Boys. After earning a master's degree in classical guitar performance, Ellis met Piedmont blues giant Reverend Gary Davis. "Davis was a great sacred bluesman…There's a combination of the heavenly and the hellish, there are wonderful dynamics, tension and drama." In his quest to make the music's message live for today, Ellis has developed a style of Americana all his own. Blues picker and Caffe Lena stalwart Andy Cohen is a connector between the legendary bluesmen of the last century (Big Bill Broonzy, Rev. Gary Davis, Honeyboy Edwards) and today's generation of blues revivalists. As a youngster coming up in the '60s folk revival, Andy began the explorations with "source" musicians that led to his current status as a virtuoso fingerstyle guitarist and "walking, talking folk-blues-roots music encyclopedia." An Andy Cohen performance encompasses the well-known, the obscure and the weirdly wonderful, and often involves autoharp and dolceola along with acoustic 6 and 12-string guitars. SAMPLE SONG SAMPLE SONG Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

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Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
2026-03-27 12:00 - 13:00
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Bring your lunch & listen to a playlist curated by a Caffe Lena Community member. For the March edition of the Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour, our playlist curator will be none other than the Captain Fun Coordinator herself! Laura Sterling! She will be playing songs about trains! The D.J. spinning those records will be the Rochmon himself – Chuck “Rochmon” Vosganian. All are welcome to gather at Lena’s from Noon to 1 PM on the last Friday of each month to enjoy musical memories and new discoveries. The playlist is selected by a different community member each month from the Captain Fun Listening Library of vinyl records in Lena’s lobby. Bring a brown bag lunch. Coffee and tea are provided. The Captain Fun Listening Library occupying the north wall in the Caffè Lena lobby consists of 1,516 vinyl albums and several hundred CDs selected from Al “Captain Fun” McKenney’s expertly curated collection. This treasure trove of folk, blues and jazz was left us in 2015 and we share it through our monthly listening hour, as Al wished. Enjoy the memories these records bring back, and dig deep into American roots music. If you want to create a playlist and host a session, please email Laura Sterling or let us know when you are next at Lena’s!

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Chris Jones & The Night Drivers
2026-03-27 20:00 - 22:00
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Chris Jones & the Night Drivers make some of the most distinctively elegant yet driving bluegrass music heard anywhere today. Deeply rooted in tradition but never bound to it, they deliver original music with tight arrangements, emotional authenticity, and engaging humor. As actor and banjo player Steve Martin says, “Chris Jones’ voice is there with the great masters,” adding that the Night Drivers are “some of the best players in bluegrass.” Collectively, Chris Jones & the Night Drivers have won 11 IBMA awards and have racked up 26 #1 songs. The band’s recent full-length release, their first all-original album, Make Each Second Last, has received rave reviews and yielded an unprecedented eight consecutive #1 songs, including the title track “We Needed This Ride.” Their song, “Riding the Chief,” co-written by Chris and Thomm Jutz, was nominated for 2022 IBMA Song of the Year. They have topped both the Bluegrass Today and Roots Music Review airplay charts with the latest album. In July of 2022, they made their debut on The Grand Ole Opry. Their new EP, Pages in Your Hand, has also yielded two more #1 songs, including the title track. SAMPLE SONG “When I first heard Chris Jones over 25 years ago he became one of my favorite singers, and he continues to have one of the most distinctive and best voices in music, period. It’s like fine wine for the ears.” – Jim Lauderdale Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

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5th Annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser for the School of Music
2026-03-28 10:00 - 12:00
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Join us for our 5th annual pancake breakfast! This event is a fundraiser for our School of Music here at Caffè Lena. Enjoy fresh pancakes and live music by the Rolling Pebbles, The Jazz Pebbles and the Adirondack Song Dogs! Maple Syrup provided by Twin Leaf Farms!

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Peak Jazz Series: Catherine Russell
2026-03-28 17:00 - 19:00
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A Voice from the Heart of American Song Vocalist Catherine Russell is a native New Yorker born into musical royalty—and she carries that legacy forward with joy, depth, and irresistible swing. Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a legendary pianist, composer, bandleader, and longtime musical director for Louis Armstrong. Her mother, the late Carline Ray, was a pioneering vocalist, guitarist, and bassist who performed with the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Mary Lou Williams, and Sy Oliver. Steeped in this extraordinary lineage, Catherine Russell brings an authenticity to American song that is both deeply rooted and entirely her own. After graduating with honors from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Russell built an astonishing career as a sought-after vocalist, touring and recording with artists including Steely Dan, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Jackson Browne, Levon Helm, Michael Feinstein, Rosanne Cash, and many more—appearing on over 200 albums. Since stepping forward as a leader, Russell has earned universal acclaim. Her albums have topped JazzWeek, Roots Music Report, and iTunes Jazz charts, reached Billboard rankings, and garnered multiple GRAMMY® nominations, international awards, and a GRAND PRIX du Jazz Vocal from the French Jazz Academy. Her recordings have received raves from DownBeat, The Wall Street Journal, JazzTimes, Relix, No Depression, and beyond, with AllMusic declaring her “a retro old-school vocalist for the ages.” Her 2022 release, Send For Me, continued this remarkable run and was followed by a widely celebrated NPR Tiny Desk (Home) concert. Russell has performed to sold-out audiences across four continents, appearing at major festivals and iconic venues including Newport Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, SFJAZZ, Tanglewood, and The Kennedy Center. Catherine Russell’s most recent release, My Ideal (Dot Time Records), is an intimate and stunning collection of voice-and-piano duets recorded with acclaimed pianist Sean Mason. Released in August 2024, the album strips each song to its emotional core, highlighting Russell’s radiant phrasing, deep swing, and storytelling mastery. Widely praised by critics, My Ideal earned a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album, further cementing Russell’s place among the great interpreters of American song. Catherine's repertoire draws from the Great American Songbook and beyond, spanning the 1920s to the present. With sparkling acoustic swing, off-the-beaten-path song choices, and a vocal approach bursting with soul, wit, and warmth, she brings these songs vividly to life—honoring their history while making them feel utterly immediate. SAMPLE SONG We’re thrilled to welcome Catherine Russell to the Caffè Lena stage for an unforgettable evening of timeless songs, joyful swing, and world-class jazz artistry. ﻿The Peak Jazz Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon in memory of Corrine Simonds. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

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Peak Jazz Series: Catherine Russell
2026-03-28 20:00 - 22:00
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A Voice from the Heart of American Song Vocalist Catherine Russell is a native New Yorker born into musical royalty—and she carries that legacy forward with joy, depth, and irresistible swing. Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a legendary pianist, composer, bandleader, and longtime musical director for Louis Armstrong. Her mother, the late Carline Ray, was a pioneering vocalist, guitarist, and bassist who performed with the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Mary Lou Williams, and Sy Oliver. Steeped in this extraordinary lineage, Catherine Russell brings an authenticity to American song that is both deeply rooted and entirely her own. After graduating with honors from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Russell built an astonishing career as a sought-after vocalist, touring and recording with artists including Steely Dan, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Jackson Browne, Levon Helm, Michael Feinstein, Rosanne Cash, and many more—appearing on over 200 albums. Since stepping forward as a leader, Russell has earned universal acclaim. Her albums have topped JazzWeek, Roots Music Report, and iTunes Jazz charts, reached Billboard rankings, and garnered multiple GRAMMY® nominations, international awards, and a GRAND PRIX du Jazz Vocal from the French Jazz Academy. Her recordings have received raves from DownBeat, The Wall Street Journal, JazzTimes, Relix, No Depression, and beyond, with AllMusic declaring her “a retro old-school vocalist for the ages.” Her 2022 release, Send For Me, continued this remarkable run and was followed by a widely celebrated NPR Tiny Desk (Home) concert. Russell has performed to sold-out audiences across four continents, appearing at major festivals and iconic venues including Newport Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, SFJAZZ, Tanglewood, and The Kennedy Center. Catherine Russell’s most recent release, My Ideal (Dot Time Records), is an intimate and stunning collection of voice-and-piano duets recorded with acclaimed pianist Sean Mason. Released in August 2024, the album strips each song to its emotional core, highlighting Russell’s radiant phrasing, deep swing, and storytelling mastery. Widely praised by critics, My Ideal earned a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album, further cementing Russell’s place among the great interpreters of American song. Catherine Russell’s repertoire draws from the Great American Songbook and beyond, spanning the 1920s to the present. With sparkling acoustic swing, off-the-beaten-path song choices, and a vocal approach bursting with soul, wit, and warmth, she brings these songs vividly to life—honoring their history while making them feel utterly immediate. SAMPLE SONG We’re thrilled to welcome Catherine Russell to the Caffè Lena stage for an unforgettable evening of timeless songs, joyful swing, and world-class jazz artistry. ﻿The Peak Jazz Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon in memory of Corrine Simonds. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

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Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams
2026-03-29 19:00 - 21:00
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World-Class Americana • Harmonies Born of a Lifetime TogetherThere’s nothing quite like the creative spark between Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams. Married and making music together for nearly four decades, their onstage chemistry is electric, equal parts soulful harmony, virtuoso musicianship, and the lived-in warmth of a true long-term partnership. Their résumés are legendary; 7 years with Levon Helm’s band and 8 years with Bob Dylan (Larry) The couple’s body of work includes four albums of their own (the latest being All This Time) and extensive touring with Jackson Browne, John Prine, Emmylou Harris, Little Feat, Phil Lesh and Bob Weir among others. Larry is a Grammy-winning master of all things stringed; mandolin, bouzouki, violin, lap steel, banjo, while Teresa’s powerhouse vocals bring gospel-rooted fire and emotional depth. Their new album All This Time is their most romantic and intuitive yet, shaped by resilience, devotion, and the joy of rediscovering each other through hardship and healing. “Their chemistry is undeniable—music made from love, lived experience, and extraordinary talent.” — No Depression This special small-venue show will feature fan favorites, dark ballads, barnburners, and a few unexpected covers, all delivered with the heart and mastery that define this remarkable duo. SAMPLE SONG Don’t miss Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams at Caffè Lena for an unforgettable night of songs, stories, and harmony forged over a lifetime.Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted. ﻿

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Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2026-03-30 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-06 10:00 - 12:00
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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 10 students. The class will run from 10:00 till 12:00. March 30th, June 6 and 13th Alan Epstein has been playing mandolin for the past 54 years and has been teaching others to play mandolin for 30 years. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pa, he has lived in the Capital District since 2008 and is currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. In 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra. and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012.

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Open Mic
2026-03-30 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-06 19:00 - 21:00
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OPEN MIC NIGHTDOORS 6:00PM // SIGN 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.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 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.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 USIf 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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Skidmore Jazz Ensembles Community Concert
2026-03-31 19:00 - 21:00
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Enjoy an evening of dynamic jazz as the Skidmore Jazz Combos take the stage! The event features multiple ensembles, each presenting an engaging program of jazz standards and contemporary works. ﻿This free community concert offers Saratoga audiences an opportunity to experience the creativity and dedication at the heart of Skidmore College’s renowned Music Department. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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Folk Club Kids
2026-04-01 10:30 - 11:00, 2026-04-08 10:30 - 11:00
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Folk Club Kids: Stories, Songs, and Sing-a-longs Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. https://www.caffelena.org/folk-club-kids/ Join Dan Berggren, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster for Folk Club Kids: a free weekly interactive concert series for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children are treated to 30 minutes of live music in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Inspire a love of music, community, and togetherness each week, learn, play, make friends and have fun! This program is made possible by Andy and Bill Spence.

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-04-01 14:30 - 17:30
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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne 17 weeks starting January 28th Use these links to sign up: 2:45, 3:40, 4:35 Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together. Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music, including singing, exploring various string instruments, music theory basics, rhythm exercises, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch, confidence in performance practice, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, of course!). Youth Folk Ensemble is– Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation. Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs. Explore string instruments and singing, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, bass, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons). Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice. Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships. Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all! Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18, 4/8] (Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA) End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time. Meet the instructors: James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs, NY. Originally from Louisville, KY, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups, at times performing on bass, guitar, drums, and vocals, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo, Drank The Gold, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs, as well as original compositions and arrangements, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music, Dance Flurry Festival, GrassRoots Culture Camp, and Winter Village Music Camp. Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music, folk songs, and original compositions, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls, Folk Club Kids, Carolyn Shapiro, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca, NY, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle, she began performing with her family band as a teenager, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do, Dr. Dog), manages a private music teaching studio, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs, including GrassRoots Culture Camp, the Flurry Festival, Winter Village Music Camp, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute. #youthclass

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-04-02 09:00 - 12:30, 2026-04-09 09:00 - 12:30
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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson Cost $195 for all 10 sessions. Drop ins $25/per session if space allows 10 Thursdays starting April 2 Click a time below to sign up: Beginner 9:15 am – 10:10 am Intermediate 10:15 am – 11:10 am Intermediate / Advanced 11:15 am – 12:10 pm Not sure what class might work best for you email: matt@caffelena.org

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Nordlys Global Voices: Alash
2026-04-02 19:00 - 21:00
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Alash are masters of Tuvan throat singing (xöömei), a remarkable technique for singing multiple pitches at the same time. What distinguishes this gifted trio from earlier generations of Tuvan throat singers is the subtle infusion of modern influences into their traditional music. One can find complex harmonies, western instruments, and contemporary song forms in Alash’s music, but its overall sound and spirit remain decidedly Tuvan. They are also masters of traditional Tuvan instruments. Trained in traditional Tuvan music since childhood, the Alash musicians studied at Kyzyl Arts College just as Tuva was beginning to open up to the West. They formed a traditional ensemble and won multiple awards for traditional throat singing in international xöömei competitions, both as an ensemble and as individuals. Alash first toured the U.S. under the sponsorship of the Open World Leadership program of the Library of Congress and the National Endowment for the Arts. Since then they have returned many times, to the delight of American audiences. The Washington Post described their music as “utterly stunning,” quipping that after the performance “audience members picked their jaws up off the floor.” Alash enjoys collaborating with musicians of all stripes. Since their early partnership with the legendary Sun Ra Arkestra, they have joined forces with musicians across the spectrum—from country to classical to jazz to beatboxing. Alash appeared as guest artists on Béla Fleck & the Flecktones’ Grammy-winning holiday CD Jingle All the Way (2008). They joined Chicago’s innovative Fifth House Ensemble in a groundbreaking concert series called Sonic Meditations, and later were part of a "global jam band" which recorded the soundtrack for the video game The Pathless. Most recently, Bady-Dorzhu Ondar teamed up with beatboxer Shodekeh in a live recording of original Tuvan songs filtered through the creative artistry of hip hop musicians. SAMPLE SONG Beyond performing, Alash has a passion for teaching and promoting understanding between cultures. Their tours often include workshops in which they introduce Tuvan music to students in primary, middle and high schools, colleges, universities, and music conservatories. Children as young as 8 and 9 have learned to throat-sing. One inspired student exclaimed, “Alash opened my eyes to a whole new world!” Made possible by The Nordlys Foundation. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

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Ladysmith Black Mambazo
2026-04-03 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-04-03 20:00 - 22:00
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Ladysmith Black Mambazo, South Africa's Grammy award-winning choral group melds indigenous Zulu songs and dances with South African isicathamiya. Considered to be an inspiring cultural force by Nelson Mandela, Black Mambazo was first introduced to the world via Paul Simon's Graceland. Since then, they've sold millions of albums worldwide, collaborated with Stevie Wonder, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris, and performed for the Queen of England and Pope John Paul II. It is a tremendous honor and joy to give our audience this rare opportunity to see this ensemble in such an intimate setting! SAMPLE SONG ​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

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Little Folks: City Birds
2026-04-04 15:00 - 16:00
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Joyful songs. Big harmonies. Music for kids — and the grownups who love them. What happens when two seasoned touring musicians with over 20 years of songwriting experience join forces to create music for families? You get City Birds — a vibrant, heart-filled children’s duo bringing fresh energy to the world of Americana and folk-inspired music for young listeners. Created by celebrated artists Tamar Eisenman and Sagit Shir, City Birds is a bold musical project that honors childhood wonder while embracing the beautifully diverse ways families come together. With rich harmonies, playful storytelling, humor, and emotional depth, their debut album offers songs children can grow up with — and parents will genuinely enjoy hearing again and again. Favorites like “Sing with Me,” “Rainbow,” “Raven,” and “The Family Song” invite participation while celebrating inclusion, belonging, and connection. As The Georgia Straight notes, “The Family Song” thoughtfully highlights many kinds of families — from single caregivers to grandparents to households with two moms or two dads — helping children see themselves reflected while nurturing empathy and understanding. City Birds’ mission is simple and beautiful: To weave a musical tapestry that sparks imagination in children while resonating deeply with parents and siblings — creating stories where every child can find comfort, joy, and inclusion. Both artists bring remarkable musical backgrounds to the stage: Sagit Shir, co-founder of the indie rock duo Hank & Cupcakes, earned recognition from MTV, Vogue, the New York Post, and Rolling Stone. Today she shares her passion through songwriting and early childhood music education while raising her two daughters. Tamar Eisenman, an Emmy-nominated musician known for her electrifying guitar work and genre-blending “Hip-Rock” style, has toured internationally and collaborates with innovative artists including Kaki King. Her music bridges rock, folk, and global influences with warmth and authenticity. Together, they create a live experience that is interactive, welcoming, and full of heart — perfect for little ones and the grownups who sing along with them. SAMPLE SONG Bring the family, clap along, and discover music that celebrates every story. 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. Helpful for parentsLittle Folks shows are designed for young children and their caregivers, with a relaxed, joyful atmosphere where wiggles, dancing, and singing are always welcome. Admission is FREE, we just ask you to please register for tickets so we know how many people to expect! ﻿

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Bright Series: Olive Klug
2026-04-04 20:00 - 22:00
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While it’s been only a short time since Olive Klug fully embraced the nontraditional life of a touring, van-dwelling musician, they’ve already emerged as one of the most compelling storytellers in contemporary folk. Klug’s sophomore album, Lost Dog, is a fearless and deeply personal exploration of love, loss, freedom, and what it means to keep choosing adventure—even when the road leads through uncertainty. With fingerpicked guitar, warm vocals, and vivid lyrical imagery, Klug writes with striking emotional honesty, addressing everything from unrequited love and modern breakups to neurodivergence, identity, and the quiet loneliness that can accompany independence. Across the album, listeners are invited into Klug’s inner world: the joy and confidence of “What to Make of Me,” the wry self-awareness of “Cold War,” the wordy, whimsical chaos of “Train of Thought,” and the fast-paced folk-punk release of “Opposite Action.” The title track, “Lost Dog,” slows things down, reflecting on the tension between freedom and stability—watching peers settle into more traditional lives while continuing to wander a different path. At the heart of Olive Klug’s music is connection. Their songs resonate because they tell the truth—about being young, about aging differently, about longing, resilience, and the beauty of fleeting moments. That connection comes fully alive in performance, where audience voices often join in, turning songs into shared experiences. Produced by Isaiah Beard (Jobi Riccio) and recorded in Nashville, Lost Dog has quickly become a standout release—and hearing these songs live is something special. SAMPLE SONG Join us for an intimate evening with an artist whose music feels like a conversation, a confession, and a warm hand on your shoulder all at once. ﻿﻿The Bright Series is made possible by a generous gift from Kevin & Claudia Bright. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted. ﻿

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Playwright's Jam
2026-04-05 13:30 - 16:00
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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 directionsBring 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 NesbittPlaywright 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.

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Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kelvin Keraga
2026-04-07 19:00 - 21:00
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Kelvin Keraga is an actor, storyteller and writer living in Greenwich, New York. For the last fifteen years he has produced Whispering Bones, an evening of ghost stories, which he performs along with a talented cast of local storytellers. (whisperingbones.com.). The show will be touring local venues again this October with a new mix of stories. Favorite acting roles include Bruce in Marie and Bruce, Charlie in Alaska Fire, Basil in The Diviners, and the Fool in King Lear. He helped rescue Erica’s baby on All My Children (who unfortunately grew up to be a rather difficult son) and was murdered in the subway in a low-budget horror movie, Underground Terror. He has performed as a storyteller in a variety of local venues, as well as the National Storytelling Network. He is author of two plays: The Stone Angel, performed at the Capital Region Festival last year, and Echoes, which was performed at Hubbard Hall. His story, “A Light Snow Falling” was a finalist in the Tiferet Journal Fiction Writing Contest. He is currently compiling his stories for publication. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿

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