Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam
2026-01-21 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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All are welcome to join the circle for an evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. Red Spruce will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!!

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-01-22 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-01-29 09:00 - 12:00
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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson Thursdays January 8th – March 12th (excluding Feb 19th) Level 1 11:15am-12:10pm Beginner / Intermediate Level 2 9:15am-10:10am Intermediate Level 3 10:15am-11:10am Intermediate / Advanced Cost $195 for all 10 sessions. Drop ins $25/per session if space allows Classes limited to 8 students per class

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-01-22 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-01-29 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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The Sweet Remains
2026-01-22 19:00 - 21:00
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Drawing comparisons to Crosby, Stills & Nash, Simon & Garfunkel, and The Eagles, while resonating with fans of John Mayer, Ray LaMontagne, and Jason Mraz, The Sweet Remains offer a rare blend of contemporary relevance and classic folk-pop charm. Their warmth, humor, and musical chemistry create an experience that feels both fresh and familiar. The trio—Rich Price, Greg Naughton, and Brian Chartrand—are each accomplished singer-songwriters in their own right, with careers spanning solo albums, international tours, film, and television. Their feature film The Independents, inspired by the band’s journey, earned praise from The Hollywood Reporter and LA Times and is currently streaming on Amazon Prime, Tubi, and more. Acclaimed folk-rock trio The Sweet Remains returns to the road with Embers, their long-awaited fifth studio album—a luminous collection of new songs showcasing the band’s signature three-part harmonies and acoustic-driven sound. Produced by Grammy-winner Andy Zulla, Embers includes standout tracks like When The World Slowed Down, Don’t Count Me Out, and the introspective title track Ember. SAMPLE SONG With over 65 million streams on Spotify and a global fanbase, The Sweet Remains continue to carve out a space where storytelling and harmony take center stage. ​​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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Music With Miss Deb
2026-01-23 09:30 - 10:30, 2026-01-30 09:30 - 10:30
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Experience this interactive and fun exploration of music with Miss Deb! Birth – 4 years old We will sing songs, move around, play with colorful props and play percussion instruments while enjoying and learning about music in an organic learning environment. Songs from other cultures will be included along with traditional folk songs. Fun for the whole family! #youthclass

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Ari Hest
2026-01-23 20:00 - 22:00
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Grammy-Nominated Singer-Songwriter · Soulful · Poignant · Unforgettable With a rich, gravelly warmth that instantly pulls listeners in, Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Ari Hest crafts songs that feel deeply intimate, emotionally resonant, and profoundly human. His voice—equal parts velvet and grit—adds vulnerability and clarity to lyrics that often articulate what the rest of us feel but struggle to express. Over the past two decades, Ari Hest has built a remarkable, singular career. Beginning as an independent artist in 2001, he toured the college circuit relentlessly, sharing stages with Martin Sexton, Suzanne Vega, Ani DiFranco, Judy Collins, and The Indigo Girls, building a loyal and passionate following one room at a time. The Boston Globe has praised him as “a prolific songwriter and a captivating live performer,” while Top40-charts dotcom places his sound “somewhere on the path where Elliott Smith meets Peter Gabriel.” Hest’s ambitious creative spirit is legendary. In 2008, he undertook his groundbreaking “52” project, writing and releasing a brand-new song every Monday for an entire year—an experiment in vulnerability, discipline, and connection. The fan-selected highlights were reimagined on his celebrated album Twelve Mondays. And in 2017, he earned a Grammy nomination for Silver Skies Blue, his stunning duets album with the iconic Judy Collins. His songs have reached far beyond the stage, appearing in The Lincoln Lawyer, The Path, Private Practice, Army Wives, One Tree Hill, and more. To mark 20 years of writing and touring, Hest released I Remember When, a retrospective album celebrating his prolific output and evolution as an artist. Never one to sit still creatively, his current endeavor—The Treehouse Project—has him writing, recording, and releasing a new song every two weeks through Patreon. Fans vote on their favorites, and at the end of the year he remixes the top selections into a new album. Now in its fourth year and nearing 100 new original songs, the project is a testament to his unstoppable artistry and his deep connection to listeners. “I don’t think what I experience is any different than what others do,” Hest says. “But I put those feelings into words, and people connect with them. It’s good for my soul—and I love knowing the music can have a real impact.” SAMPLE SONG Beautifully crafted songs. A voice full of soul. A performer who always delivers. This is Ari Hest—live, up close, and unforgettable. ​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Live stream 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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Dirty Grass Players
2026-01-24 20:00 - 22:00
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With a nod to tradition and a fearless sense of adventure, The Dirty Grass Players are pushing the boundaries of bluegrass—and having a blast doing it. Hailing from Baltimore, this high‑energy quartet blends razor‑sharp harmonies, rootsy improvisation, and modern songwriting into a sound that’s fresh, fast, and unmistakably their own. Equally convincing on a two‑minute Flatt & Scruggs classic or a ten‑minute jam‑band detour, The Dirty Grass Players walk the line between reverence and rebellion. Their latest album, Shiny Side Up—produced by Cody Kilby of The Travelin' McCourys—has earned praise from Bluegrass Unlimited and audiences across the U.S. and Europe. Their daring bluegrass take on Hendrix’s “Voodoo Child” proves these guys aren't afraid to get a little dirty. With a recharged lineup including founding members Ben Kolakowski (guitar) and Ryan Rogers (mandolin), joined by Connor Murray (bass) and Sam Guthridge (banjo), The Dirty Grass Players deliver a live show that’s rooted, inventive, and deeply anchored in American string‑band tradition SAMPLE SONG Join us for an unforgettable night of boundary-bending bluegrass. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Live stream 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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Dust Bowl Faeries Show Postponed to Fri. 3/6/26 @8PM
2026-01-25 19:00 - 21:00
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THIS SHOW WAS RESCHEDULED FROM SUNDAY, JANUARY 25TH DUE TO THE STORM. TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR THE MARCH 6TH DATE, GO TO THAT DATE ON OUR CALENDAR. CLICK ON THE LINK . Dust Bowl Faeries perform a faerie-tale of dark cabaret and macabre polka music, infused with a dose of witchcraft and a dusting of woodland magic. Hailing from the haunted villages of the NY Hudson Valley, the Faeries perform original songs peppered with nuances of tango, flamenco, Klezmer, Balkan and Romani swing music. Singing saw, piano accordion, lap-steel, bass, acoustic guitar and percussion combine to create the Dust Bowl Faeries otherworldly sound. The Dust Bowl Faeries ensemble has toured internationally and has released several albums including Magic & Mayhem (2024) featuring Melora Creager/Rasputina on cello, Carnival Dust (2023) featuring harpist Mikaela Davis, and a debut album featuring Tommy Stinson of The Replacements/Guns N' Roses. SAMPLE SONG Americana by way of pagan cabaret – Bay Area Reporter Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Live stream 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 fave 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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So You Want to Play Mandolin with Alan Epstein
2026-01-26 10:00 - 11:30
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This class is designed for the beginner; those folks who are interested in playing the mandolin but don't know where to start. We will cover the basics of holding, tuning and playing your first notes and chords on the mandolin, left and right hand technique and also learn to play a few songs. My goal is to get you started and provide you with the skills needed to play this great little instrument going forward. We will take things slowly, with a focus on producing clear tone, developing muscle memory in your fingers and most importantly having fun. Each week we will review all the things we’ve covered in previous classes. We will learn mostly by ear, but a few handouts will be provided. The only prerequisite is that you have a mandolin, a few picks, an extra set of mandolin strings, an electronic tuner and, most importantly, a desire to play the mandolin. Class size is limited to 10 so reserve your spot now! 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 and currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. A former contributing writer for the now defunct Mandolin Magazine, in 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012. During all this time he has made it a priority to take mandolin lessons and workshops from the top players in the world and share what he has learned when he teach others to play. Alan teaches by ear and specializes in Bluegrass and Old Time music. In Alan’s own words, “IMHO the world needs more mandolin players and I'm here to help make that happen”.

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Bluegrass Duet Class with Alan Epstein
2026-01-26 12:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-02 12:00 - 14:30
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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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Open Mic
2026-01-26 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-02 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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Julia Alsarraf Album Release
2026-01-27 19:00 - 21:00
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Caffè Lena is so happy to host the album release show for In Fidelity, the bold and deeply personal new record from Troy-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Julia Alsarraf. Originally from Houston and now rooted in Troy after graduating from RPI, Julia has become one of the Capital Region’s most compelling emerging voices. Her music blends contemporary folk, indie rock, and raw emotional power—held together by a voice that carries both vulnerability and strength. Written in an intense creative burst following the passing of her father, In Fidelity explores what it means to see clearly and act faithfully—not only in relationships with others, but also in the often-overlooked relationship with oneself. The album’s title plays on “infidelity,” opening the door to questions of identity, authenticity, grief, courage, and the difficult truths that surface when old patterns fall away. These songs come from a place of reckoning—of allowing long-buried questions to rise, of honoring complexity, and of pursuing honesty even when it feels unwelcome. Musically, the project leans into what Julia affectionately calls “despair punk”: guitar-driven, emotionally charged songs full of grit, distortion, introspection, and catharsis. It’s a sound that’s unafraid to sit with discomfort while still chasing clarity, connection, and transformation. SAMPLE SONG Join us for an unforgettable night of new music, emotional honesty, and the debut of In Fidelity at Caffè Lena. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Live stream 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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Folk Club Kids
2026-01-28 10:30 - 11:00, 2026-02-04 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
2026-01-28 14:30 - 17:30, 2026-02-04 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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Bright Series: Question of the Century with opener Cora Burch
2026-01-29 19:00 - 21:00
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Question of the Century is a rising folk duo with gorgeous harmonies, a vintage spirit, and a sound that feels both timeless and immediate. Made up of Skidmore College students Ellie Ushakov and Francis Davies, the duo grew out of a shared love of 1960s folk music and an instant musical chemistry. Their songs are warm, lyrical, and heartfelt—built on close harmonies, acoustic textures, and a simplicity that lets the writing shine. It’s music that invites listening, connection, and a little leaning in. Both artists bring their own distinct voices to the collaboration. Francis Davies is a Saratoga Springs–based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose work blends folk, indie, and classic influences with a strong storytelling sensibility. His songwriting carries a quiet confidence and a deep respect for tradition, while remaining firmly rooted in the present. In addition to his musical work, Francis is a former Caffè Lena intern and a current volunteer—making this show a true homecoming. Ellie Ushakov aka Amélie is an indie-folk singer-songwriter whose music is intimate, thoughtful, and emotionally precise. Writing and recording original songs at Skidmore’s Grossman Recording Studio, she brings a gentle clarity to her work as both a vocalist and guitarist. Her recent release, “Drones in New Jersey,” highlights her knack for melody, atmosphere, and honest expression. Ellie is also part of the Caffè Lena family, having recently joined the staff part-time. Together, Question of the Century creates music that feels rooted in the past while speaking directly to the present—songs shaped by harmony, care, and curiosity. Their performances are understated but compelling, perfectly suited to a listening room where every note and lyric can land. SAMPLE SONG We’re proud to welcome these two young artists—both deeply connected to Lena’s community—to the stage. Come hear what happens when tradition, friendship, and thoughtful songwriting meet. Opener Cora Burch’s style is primarily indie-pop and singer-songwriter. Her tracks, such as "Sugarpill" and "Butterflies,"often feature acoustic-driven arrangements and emotive, clear vocals that highlight her lyrical storytelling. Originally from Los Angeles, she began writing music as early as age three, with her first song titled "Rolly-Pin". Her song "Sugarpill" was featured in the Song Academy "Top 30 Songs" for international songwriters aged 13–18 in 2024. Cora is also a current student at Skidmore. Come experience an evening of bold voices, joyful noise, and new folk energy at Caffè Lena. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Live stream 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
2026-01-30 12:00 - 13:00
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Bring your lunch & listen to a playlist curated by a Caffe Lena Community member. For the January edition of the Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour, our playlist curator will be none other than our Caffè Lena member, Jack Reber! Jack's theme is, "Side One Track One", songs from musicians that are unknown to Jack. He says, "There are many albums in the collection that are unknown to me, and maybe others, so I decided to explore them. Generally, the first track on an album is the best, or very good." 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 at lsterling834@gmail.com, or let us know when you are next at Lena’s!

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Kate McDonnell with Jimi Woodul
2026-01-30 20:00 - 22:00
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Singer-songwriter-guitarist Kate McDonnell has been captivating audiences around the world for decades with her jaw-dropping guitar technique, her award-winning songwriting, and a voice so pure and expressive it stops a room in its tracks. Kate’s introduction to folk music came early—at age four—when she discovered a Joan Baez record in her mother’s collection. She picked up her mother’s guitar, which was taller than she was, and taught herself to play left-handed, upside-down, and backwards. That unconventional beginning sparked a lifelong devotion to the instrument. As she grew, Kate absorbed the influences of Leo Kottke, Mason Williams, Steve Howe, and Duane Allman—eventually developing a style all her own: rhythmic, intricate, fluid, and mesmerizing. From her roots performing with her twin sister in Baltimore to opening for legends like Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, and Judy Collins, Kate’s career has been marked by artistry, curiosity, and constant evolution. Her songwriting took off in the early ’90s when she became a Kerrville New Folk Finalist, a Falcon Ridge Showcase finalist, and released her debut album Broken Bones, praised by Sing Out! and Dirty Linen for its emotional power and standout musicianship. Kate has toured extensively throughout Europe, performed on World Café, appeared at the Newport Folk Festival, and earned praise from artists including Jonathan Edwards—who called her “one of the premier female solo acoustic acts around”—and Bill Staines, who called her “one of the finest writers and performers I’ve heard in a long time.” After years of performing, Kate took a meaningful detour into a second calling: working as a child therapist. But songwriting was never far from her heart. She continued writing with long-time collaborator Anne Lindley, eventually returning to the studio for her acclaimed 2020 album Ballad of a Bad Girl, recorded at Dreamland Studios with legendary players Jerry Marotta (drums) and Tony Levin (bass). The result is a rich, thoughtful, emotionally charged collection that blends deep experience with renewed creative fire. Kate McDonnell live is something rare and unforgettable. Her shimmering soprano voice. Her extraordinary guitar work. Her stories—playful, wise, and profoundly human. This is an artist who has lived many lives, carried many songs, and brings all of it to the stage with honesty, clarity, and heart. SAMPLE SONG A chance to witness a masterful musician return to the spotlight—still evolving, still surprising, still singing with stunning beauty. ​​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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Chord Melody On The Uke with Ron Gordon
2026-01-31 10:00 - 12:00
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Chord Melody On The Uke with Ron Gordon Jan 31st 10 am – 12 pm $35 We will learn a few ways to move closed chord shapes on the uke , and so apply a few concepts of how to enhance your songs. Moving chords on the uke is generally much more doable on the short scale and nylon strings, as compared to other fretted instruments. We’ll cover sliding, chromatic movement, and using different chord shapes up and down the neck as a way to introduce this technique. We have ukes to borrow if you need!

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Honeysuckle
2026-01-31 20:00 - 22:00
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Rooted in American folk and bluegrass traditions yet unafraid to explore modern sonic landscapes. Upstate-NY based duo Holly McGarry and Chris Bloniarz craft lush two-part harmonies and intricate arrangements on acoustic guitar, banjo, mandolin and subtle synth textures. Their sound glows with warmth, emotional depth, and the kind of musical connection that only comes from true creative partnership. Fans of Boy & Bear, Shook Twins and The Novel Ideas will feel right at home. From delicate ballads to foot-tapping folk grooves, Honeysuckle brings an intimate and immersive live show that stays with you well beyond the evening. Their last single, "Phoenix," is a cathartic meditation on grief–an attempt to capture the enormous weight of loss through small, everyday moments. It's an incantation, a spark in the darkness, and a powerful example of the emotional honesty that runs through their songwriting. Honeysuckle has toured nationally and performed at top festivals including Newport Folk Festival, Lollapalooza, Mountain Jam, Americanafest, Otis Mountain Get Down and Audiotree. They've earned major accolades, including several Boston Music Awards and an NPR award. Their most recent EP, Shadow Dance (2023), follows a prolific string of releases: Great Divide (2021), FireStarter (2019), Catacombs (2017), Honeysuckle (2016), and Arrows (2015). SAMPLE SONG Join us for an unforgettable evening of rich harmonies, heartfelt storytelling, and the masterful musicianship of Honeysuckle. Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Live stream 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
2026-02-01 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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Lee DeWyze
2026-02-01 19:00 - 21:00
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Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Chicago, Lee DeWyze first captured the nation’s heart as the winner of American Idol Season 9. But his story didn’t end with that victory—it was only the beginning of a remarkable artistic journey that’s taken him from local clubs to global stages, and from the recording studio to the silver screen. Eager to define his own identity as a songwriter after American Idol, Lee released Frames, a heartfelt debut that set the tone for the deeply personal, emotionally charged music that followed. His sound—a seamless blend of folk, indie, and Americana with pop sensibility—has earned him a devoted fan base and critical praise alike. One of Lee’s songs made its debut in AMC’s The Walking Dead, sparking a new chapter in his career as his music found a home in television and film. Since then, his songs have appeared in over 100 shows, movies, trailers, and commercials, solidifying his reputation as a darling of the licensing and sync world. With multiple albums under his belt—including Oil & Water, Paranoia, Ghost Stories, and his 2024 release Gone For Days—Lee continues to evolve as both a performer and a writer. His work has been praised for its emotional honesty, cinematic atmosphere, and ability to connect through storytelling that has that magic of feeling both intimate and universal. Now based in Tennessee, Lee is entering a new creative chapter, crafting music that speaks to growth, change, and the beauty of human experience. Whether performing solo or collaborating with others, he captivates audiences with his raw voice, poetic lyrics, and the authenticity that has defined his career from the very start. SAMPLE SONG Join us for an unforgettable evening with this soulful singer-songwriter—an artist whose songs remind us that every story, sung from the heart, can leave a lasting mark. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Live stream 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
2026-02-02 10:00 - 11:30
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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 20 students. The class will run from 10:00 till 11:30 on February 2 , 9, 16 and 23rd. 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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Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Eileen Egan Mack
2026-02-03 19:00 - 21:00
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Eileen Egan Mack is a singer and storyteller. Storytelling has been a part of her life since her mother spellbound her four girls telling stories at the kitchen table. Eileen’s stories usually celebrate blessings of Earth, trees, and sky, but any story that gets the teller and the audience equally engaged is a great story to her. She has written and produced two one woman shows: "Voice of the Mountains: Jeanne Robert Foster, an Adirondack Legacy," and "Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton: Albany Girl/American Woman." A member of the StoryCircle of the Capital District, Northeast Storytellers, and National Storytelling Network, she is proud of how these organizations support tellers and provide audiences magical experiences. She is grateful for Caffe Lena's continued support for this art form. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Live stream 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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