Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2026-03-09 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Bluegrass Workshop

Share:

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. 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

General
$100.00

More Information

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Open Mic
2026-03-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

OPEN MIC NIGHT
DOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM

Play your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine, The Alt Weekly, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows, all attention is focused on the stage.

OUR HOSTS

First Monday – Rick Bolton

Second Monday – Carolyn Shapiro

Third Monday – Ray Pashoukos

Fourth Monday – Kate Blain

HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:

Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.
Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.
Doors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /
Sign up is first come first serve
You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.
Coffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.
Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.

CONTACT US

If you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

JAZZ at Caffe Lena : The Chuck Lamb Trio with Special Guest Greg Abate
2026-03-10 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

Join us for another extraordinary evening of jazz as Caffè Lena’s monthly jazz series returns with resident host and pianist Chuck Lamb at the helm. A pillar of Caffè Lena’s jazz programming, Lamb brings fresh energy, deep musicality, and an open-hearted spirit to every performance.

This March, the Chuck Lamb Trio welcomes a very special guest: acclaimed saxophonist Greg Abate, a lifelong champion of straight-ahead jazz whose vibrant tone and masterful improvisation have captivated audiences around the world. A Berklee College of Music graduate and former member of both the Ray Charles Orchestra and the Artie Shaw band, Abate brings decades of experience — and an unmistakable musical voice — to every performance.

A prolific recording artist and Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame inductee, Abate is celebrated for keeping the spirit of bebop alive while infusing it with fresh energy. His appearance with the trio promises an evening of inspired interplay, bold creativity, and the thrilling spontaneity that only happens when great jazz musicians share the stage.

Chuck Lamb has been the pianist with the renowned Brubeck Brothers Quartet since 2002 and is known for his passionate, expressive style. In addition to his jazz credentials, he’s a prolific composer whose work spans jazz, fusion, classical, and world music. His performances are electrifying—moving seamlessly between lyricism and explosive improvisation.

Started by Chuck with support from late GRAMMY and Oscar-winning producer Joel Moss, the Jazz at Caffè Lena series continues to grow as a regional destination for lovers of innovative, boundary-pushing jazz.

Whether you’re a longtime jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the scene, this night of music will surprise, delight, and leave you wanting more. We’re thrilled to welcome Greg Abate as a special guest with Chuck Lamb for an evening of deep musical conversation, fearless improvisation, and world-class jazz artistry.

SAMPLE SONG

Don’t miss your chance to witness spontaneous magic—live and in the moment.

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.

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Folk Club Kids
2026-03-11 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

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.

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-03-11 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

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

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Clawhammer Banjo with Carolyn Shapiro
2026-03-11 17:45 - 18:45 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

Learn the basics of clawhammer banjo with award winning banjo player Carolyn Shapiro. This four week workshop will introduce you to everything you need to get started on your banjo journey. You will learn the clawhammer technique, how to tune your instrument, basic chord shapes, alternate tunings, and a few songs that will help you get familiar with your instrument. This is a beginner level workshop and is perfect for anyone who is brand new to music or brand new to this style of banjo.

Carolyn is an old-time banjo player and songwriter from Glens Falls who has been picking and singing around the Capital Region for over ten years. She got her start as a performer working at Caffe Lena and is now a regular host of the Monday open mic. Blending sultry flavor with a deep-rooted traditional style, Carolyn's music pushes the boundaries of the banjo with a catalog of songs that takes listeners on an intimate journey through the complexities of being human. As a performer, Carolyn brings a joy and vulnerability to the stage, leaving audiences feeling genuinely restored and inspired. Her 2022 debut album earned her the title of Folk Artist of the Year at the Capital Region Music Rewards. Her sophomore release, Take it Easy (2024) was recorded live with her band and captures the warmth, spontaneity, and camaraderie that define her sound.

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Music Theory for Jammers with Bruce Thompson
2026-03-11 19:00 - 20:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

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

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-03-12 09:00 - 12:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

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

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

School of Music Slow Jam
2026-03-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

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

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Caitlin Canty
2026-03-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

Caitlin Canty’s songs feel discovered rather than constructed—rooted in tradition, shaped by lived experience, and delivered with a voice that is both haunting and quietly resolute. Drawing from the grit and grace at the heart of American music, her work blends folk, blues, and Americana into songs that linger long after the last note fades.

Since the release of her critically acclaimed Reckless Skyline in 2015, Canty has become a beloved presence in the roots music world, touring extensively across the U.S. and Europe and performing at festivals like Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, FreshGrass, and Telluride Bluegrass Festival—where she won the Telluride Troubadour songwriting competition. Her song “Get Up” was nominated for Song of the Year at the Folk Alliance International Music Awards and featured on NPR Music’s Songs We Love. Her music has appeared in film and television (House of Cards, Money Heist, Code Black) and has earned over 40 million streams worldwide.

Canty’s newest album, Night Owl Envies the Mourning Dove, marks a return to a grittier, more electric Americana sound—echoing Reckless Skyline while reflecting the profound life changes of recent years. Recorded live in the studio while Canty was nearly eight months pregnant, the album captures songs shaped by motherhood, place, resilience, and the shifting meaning of home. Co-produced with Sam Kassirer (Josh Ritter), the record was tracked over four days in rural Maine with a band of longtime collaborators, preserving the raw immediacy and emotional clarity of the performances.

Canty’s songwriting is cinematic and precise—her lyrics vivid as short stories, her melodies steeped in blues and folk tradition yet unmistakably her own. Whether whispering a lullaby or leaning into a driving electric groove, she sings with restraint and intention, letting every bend, breath, and quiver carry weight.

SAMPLE SONG

“Dreamy and daring.” — Rolling Stone

“A beautiful voice both strong and deliberate.” — No Depression

“Clear-sighted courage and profound authenticity.” — The Bluegrass Situation

This is music shaped by real life—by storms weathered, homes remade, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going. We’re honored to welcome Caitlin Canty back to the Caffè Lena 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.

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Music With Miss Deb
2026-03-13 09:30 - 10:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

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

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Stéphane Wrembel Quartet
2026-03-13 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

“Perhaps the most creative improviser in Gypsy jazz today, Mr. Wrembel plays the guitar with a rich and colorful lyricism.”

— The New York Times

Hailed by Rolling Stone as “a revelation” and described by The New York Observer as “the living face of Gypsy jazz,” Stéphane Wrembel stands among the world’s most celebrated guitarists and composers.

Born in Fontainebleau, France, Wrembel has spent more than two decades enchanting audiences across the globe with a singular sound that blends jazz, gypsy swing, and world music into something unmistakably his own.

In addition to his extraordinary live performances, Wrembel is a highly sought-after composer. His music has been featured prominently in acclaimed films including Midnight in Paris (“Bistro Fada”), Vicky Cristina Barcelona (“Big Brother”), and Rifkin’s Festival (original score). Midnight in Paris went on to win the GRAMMY® Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack, and in 2012 Wrembel was personally selected by Hans Zimmer to perform at the Academy Awards® alongside an all-star ensemble including Esperanza Spalding, Pharrell, and Sheila E.

With 19 albums released under his own name and the acclaimed Django Experiment series, Wrembel continues to push creative boundaries. His most recent release, a three-CD Triptych (Phases I, II & III) recorded with renowned improvisational pianist Jean-Michel Pilc, was released in April 2024 and received glowing reviews from DownBeat, Guitar Player Magazine, Acoustic Guitar Magazine, New York City Jazz Record, and more. His collaborations with artists such as David Grisman and GRAMMY®-winning guitarist Raul Midón further underscore his remarkable versatility.

Wrembel is also a passionate educator and cultural ambassador. Since 2003, he has served as the artistic director of Django à Gogo, a weeklong festival and guitar camp celebrating the Sinti guitar tradition, hosted at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, and featuring master classes with world-class musicians.

Over the years, Wrembel has shared the stage with an astonishing range of artists—from Elvis Costello, Patti Smith, and The Roots to Medeski Martin & Wood, John Scofield, Sam Bush, and Stochelo Rosenberg—and has appeared on NPR’s Mountain Stage and Woodsongs Old Time Radio Hour. His performances transcend labels and expectations, offering something deeply resonant for every listener.

SAMPLE SONG

As Wrembel says:

“I just play my own music. It’s not only for the rock lover, the Django lover, or the jazz lover—it’s for the music lover.”

We’re thrilled to welcome Stéphane Wrembel & Band to the Caffè Lena stage for an evening of virtuosic guitar, rich storytelling, and music without borders.

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.

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Songwriting Club
2026-03-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

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

January 10th

10am – 12pm

$5 donation

cookies and coffee by donation

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Cherish the Ladies
2026-03-14 16:00 - 18:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

Virtuosity, Tradition & Joyful Irish Music

For nearly four decades, Cherish the Ladies has captivated audiences around the world as one of the most celebrated ensembles in Irish music history. Known for their exhilarating blend of traditional Irish music, stunning vocals, and propulsive step dancing, the group delivers performances that are as moving as they are joyful.

Since their founding in 1985, this GRAMMY®-nominated ensemble has helped redefine what Irish traditional music can be—forging a powerful path for women in a historically male-dominated genre while earning the admiration of audiences and critics alike. As The Boston Globe puts it: “It is simply impossible to imagine an audience that wouldn’t enjoy what they do!”

Led by flute and whistle virtuoso Joanie Madden, a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Award, Cherish the Ladies showcases an extraordinary mix of virtuosic instrumentalists, beautiful vocalists, engaging arrangements, and dynamic step dancing. Their signature sound seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, creating an experience that is both deeply rooted and thrillingly alive.

Over the years, Cherish the Ladies has released 18 critically acclaimed albums and performed thousands of concerts worldwide—from prestigious concert halls and international festivals to the Olympics and the White House. Their collaborations read like a who’s who of American and Irish music, including the Boston Pops Symphony, The Chieftains, Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, Vince Gill, Nanci Griffith, and The Clancy Brothers & Tommy Makem. They have also performed more than 300 nights with leading symphony orchestras, earning their reputation as the most celebrated Celtic Pops act in history.

Praise for the band is universal. The New York Times calls their sound “passionate, tender, and rambunctious,” while The Washington Post marvels at their “astonishing array of virtuosity.” Their accolades include BBC Best Musical Group of the Year and Top North American Celtic Group at the Irish Music Awards—along with a street named in their honor in the Bronx: “Joanie Madden and Cherish the Ladies.”

SAMPLE SONG

We’re thrilled to welcome Cherish the Ladies to Caffè Lena for an evening of world-class Irish music that promises to delight longtime fans and newcomers alike.

This show is made possible by the generous support of Celtic Treasures.

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.

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Cherish the Ladies
2026-03-14 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

Virtuosity, Tradition & Joyful Irish Music

For nearly four decades, Cherish the Ladies has captivated audiences around the world as one of the most celebrated ensembles in Irish music history. Known for their exhilarating blend of traditional Irish music, stunning vocals, and propulsive step dancing, the group delivers performances that are as moving as they are joyful.

Since their founding in 1985, this GRAMMY®-nominated ensemble has helped redefine what Irish traditional music can be—forging a powerful path for women in a historically male-dominated genre while earning the admiration of audiences and critics alike. As The Boston Globe puts it: “It is simply impossible to imagine an audience that wouldn’t enjoy what they do!”

Led by flute and whistle virtuoso Joanie Madden, a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Award, Cherish the Ladies showcases an extraordinary mix of virtuosic instrumentalists, beautiful vocalists, engaging arrangements, and dynamic step dancing. Their signature sound seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, creating an experience that is both deeply rooted and thrillingly alive.

Over the years, Cherish the Ladies has released 18 critically acclaimed albums and performed thousands of concerts worldwide—from prestigious concert halls and international festivals to the Olympics and the White House. Their collaborations read like a who’s who of American and Irish music, including the Boston Pops Symphony, The Chieftains, Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, Vince Gill, Nanci Griffith, and The Clancy Brothers & Tommy Makem. They have also performed more than 300 nights with leading symphony orchestras, earning their reputation as the most celebrated Celtic Pops act in history.

Praise for the band is universal. The New York Times calls their sound “passionate, tender, and rambunctious,” while The Washington Post marvels at their “astonishing array of virtuosity.” Their accolades include BBC Best Musical Group of the Year and Top North American Celtic Group at the Irish Music Awards—along with a street named in their honor in the Bronx: “Joanie Madden and Cherish the Ladies.”

SAMPLE SONG

We’re thrilled to welcome Cherish the Ladies to Caffè Lena for an evening of world-class Irish music that promises to delight longtime fans and newcomers alike.

﻿This show is made possible by the generous support of Celtic Treasures.

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.

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters
2026-03-15 14:00 - 16:00, 2026-03-22 14:00 - 16:00 | Online, Streaming On Zoom
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

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 March 1 – 22, 2025

Part Two: Sundays April 12 – May 3, 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

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Kevin McKrell
2026-03-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

Legendary Songwriter • Celtic Roots Pioneer • Upstate NY Icon

Few artists have shaped American Celtic music as profoundly—or as joyfully—as Kevin McKrell. For more than four decades, his songs have traveled farther than he ever could, carried by pub singers, festival performers, and touring bands across the U.S. and around the world. On any given night, somewhere across the country or across the sea, a crowd is singing along to a Kevin McKrell song.

McKrell first made his mark in 1979 with the groundbreaking trio Donnybrook Fair, whose 1982 album Tunnel Tigers became a cornerstone of the genre—fusing Clancy Brothers tradition with the grit, humor, and heart of upstate New York. In 1998, he launched The McKrells, a powerhouse string band that blended Celtic soul with a fiery bluegrass edge. Their high-energy shows took them from local pubs to Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and major festivals nationwide.

Above all, Kevin is celebrated for his songs—modern folk standards such as “Donegal,” “Dublin Town,” “I Miss the Rain,” and the timeless “All of the Hard Days Are Gone.” These anthems have been recorded and performed by a long list of artists, including The Kingston Trio, Bob Shane, The Furey Brothers, North Sea Gas, Hair of the Dog, and many more.

With his trademark wit, booming voice, and songs that feel like shared memories, Kevin McKrell brings people together like few others can.

SAMPLE SONG

Join us for an unforgettable night with a great American songwriter, and a voice of Celtic tradition, bluegrass fire, and deep storytelling roots.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% 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.﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Bluegrass Duet Class with Alan Epstein
2026-03-16 12:00 - 14:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

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.

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Open Mic
2026-03-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

OPEN MIC NIGHT
DOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM

Play your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine, The Alt Weekly, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows, all attention is focused on the stage.

OUR HOSTS

First Monday – Rick Bolton

Second Monday – Carolyn Shapiro

Third Monday – Ray Pashoukos

Fourth Monday – Kate Blain

HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:

Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.
Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.
Doors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /
Sign up is first come first serve
You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.
Coffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.
Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.

CONTACT US

If you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: Bonnie Raitt’s ‘Roots in the Blues’
2026-03-17 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

On Tuesday, March 17, Rochmon Record Club will converge at Caffe’ Lena 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, to listen to and learn about Bonnie Raitt’s ‘Roots in the Blues’ a Retrospective Listening Party.

Inspired by Blues music and musicians at the earliest stages of her long, award-winning career, you’’ll go back to the beginning, listening to blues cuts off Bonnie Raitt’s first and second albums from 1971 and 1972 including “Mighty Tight Woman” and “Women be Wise” by classic blues woman Sippie Wallace and showcasing the slide guitar technique adopted from her blues mentor Mississippi Fred McDowell. The Rochmon will also play cuts off Bonnie’s first live performance album, 1995’s ‘Road Tested’, highlighting Bonnie’s evolving talents as a most sensitive interpreter of the songs of her friends, including “Thing Called Love”, “Love Letter”, “Angel From Montgomery” and 7 more.

A Rochmon Record Club Listening Party is meant to inform and deepen our understanding of the history of the individual performers, songs, and stories that went into the making of this classic album. By listening together, we hear the music again for the first time.

​​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.

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Folk Club Kids
2026-03-18 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

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.

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-03-18 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

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

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Bluegrass Jam
2026-03-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

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!!

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

School of Music Slow Jam
2026-03-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

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

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light
2026-03-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

The song “Radium Girls (Curie Eleison)” tells the story of factory workers poisoned by radium paint in the early 1900s. Written by songwriter Rachel Sumner, it has been streamed hundreds of thousands of times and shared widely in classrooms, performances, and folk circles across the country.

Now Sumner brings those songs to the Caffè Lena stage with her trio Traveling Light, performing gathered around a single microphone with close harmonies, fiddle, upright bass, and acoustic guitar.

In 2024 she was named a Kerrville New Folk winner, one of the most respected honors in songwriting, and five of her songs are now archived at the Library of Congress.

On stage, Sumner is joined by Kat Wallace on fiddle and vocals and Mike Siegel on upright bass and vocals. Performing gathered around a single microphone, the trio creates a warm, balanced sound built on close vocal harmonies and careful musicianship—exactly the kind of music that shines in a listening room.

Their latest release, The Traveling Light Sessions, captures the trio the same way they perform live: voices, fiddle, bass, and guitar recorded together in the room, without overdubs.

SAMPLE SONG

For listeners who love great songwriting, rich harmonies, and acoustic music played up close, Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light deliver a memorable night on the Caffè Lena stage.

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

﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Momentum Series: Joy Clark with opener Buggy Jive
2026-03-20 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

Caffè Lena is thrilled to welcome Louisiana-born singer-songwriter and guitarist Joy Clark, a rising force in Americana and folk whose debut album Tell it to the Wind marks her arrival as a bold new voice. Raised just outside New Orleans in a tight-knit, deeply religious family, Joy first learned guitar and harmony in her parents’ church. As she came into her identity as a queer Black woman, songwriting became her path toward freedom and self-definition.

Her sound blends the social consciousness of folk, the grooves of Southeast Louisiana, and the soul-rooted music she grew up with. Joy honed her craft in New Orleans, toured with Grammy-winner Cyril Neville, and later joined Allison Russell’s acclaimed Rainbow Coalition, performing alongside Brandi Carlile, the Indigo Girls, and more. Russell calls her “a brilliant artist, writer, and singer.”

On Tell it to the Wind, produced with four-time Grammy nominee Margaret Becker, Joy delivers songs of liberation, love, and belonging. It is a stirring, triumphant debut from an artist fully stepping into her power.

SAMPLE SONG

Opening the night is Upstate NY soul-rock songwriter Buggy Jive, whose music blends Zeppelin grit, D’Angelo groove, and Joni Mitchell storytelling. A past NPR Tiny Desk “Top Shelf” pick and multiple Eddie Award winner, Buggy Jive brings razor-sharp lyricism, rich humor, and a sound steeped in literature, soul, and rock.

SAMPLE SONG

Expect extraordinary guitar work, heartfelt storytelling, and songs rooted in identity, liberation, and joy. A night of two visionary artists who leave everything on the stage.

This show is part of our Momentum Series, ﻿made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon, in honor of Thom O'Neil.

﻿This series features high energy music–solo or band. These are typically more shows that infuse the room with crackling energy rather than featuring solo acoustic performers.

​​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.

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM

Bright Series: Andrea von Kampen Trio
2026-03-21 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

Intimate Songs • Lyrical Guitar • Thoughtful Storytelling

Described by The New York Times as “a fine singer with guitar work reminiscent of the cult hero Nick Drake,” Andrea von Kampen is a songwriter of rare subtlety—an artist whose music invites deep listening, reflection, and connection.

Her songs are intimate and introspective, guided by graceful melodies and a calm, expressive voice that feels both timeless and immediate. After a series of well-received EPs, von Kampen released her full-length debut Old Country in 2019, followed by That Spell (2021) on Fantasy Records. In 2022, she made her acting debut in the independent film A Chance Encounter, starring in the film and writing and recording its soundtrack, also released via Fantasy Records.

Her most recent studio album, Sister Moon (2024), marks a new chapter. Inspired by the writing of Richard Powers, the album explores climate change, the interconnectedness of nature, and our place within it—songs that feel contemplative, urgent, and quietly powerful. Von Kampen’s work consistently bridges the personal and the political, the inward gaze and the wider world.

A seasoned and compelling live performer, Andrea von Kampen has shared the stage with artists including The Tallest Man on Earth, Trampled by Turtles, Watchhouse, Punch Brothers, The Wood Brothers, Bonny Light Horseman, and Leif Vollebekk. She has appeared at renowned festivals such as the Newport Folk Festival and Rocky Mountain Folks Festival, and her music has reached listeners around the globe, amassing more than 55 million streams on Spotify.

Looking ahead, von Kampen is preparing to release a protest EP later this year—an urgent collection of songs confronting the reemergence of hateful rhetoric in American politics, speaking truth to power, and calling for justice and solidarity.

SAMPLE SONG

With a warm voice, graceful guitar playing, and a rare gift for reflection, Andrea von Kampen creates performances that feel personal, present, and quietly powerful. This is music for listeners who value nuance, care, and meaning—songs that linger, and a live performance perfectly suited to the intimacy of a listening room.

We’re thrilled to welcome her to the Caffè Lena stage for an evening of songs made for listening closely.

​​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.

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

WAMC On the Road: Communities in Conversation, "Does Music Matter?"
2026-03-22 14:00 - 16:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

Share:

WAMC On the Road: Communities in Conversation, "Does Music Matter?"

Join WAMC On the Road for a special conversation recorded live at historic Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs. Our panel of experts will attempt to answer the question “Does music matter?” (spoiler: Yes, it does.) by exploring topics surrounding music as a path to healing, empathy and health.

Leading the discussion will be WAMC’s Southern Adirondack Bureau Chief Aaron Shellow-Lavine. Joining Aaron on the dais will be Caffe Lena Executive Director Sarah Craig, Dr. Dominique Vuvan, Associate Professor in the Psychology Department and Neuroscience Program at Skidmore College and folk-musician and educator Dan Berggren.

Music as a path to healing, empathy and health posits a robust dialogue about what role does music play in making us better people? How does music connect and grow our communities? Does live music have a future? We’ll engage these questions and more with open minds from our panel of experts, as well as thoughts and queries from our live audience . Does music matter?

Admission is free with registration through Caffe Lena.

WAMC On the Road brings WAMC Northeast Public Radio’s microphones out of the soundproof booth and into the beating hearts of the communities we serve. This exciting endeavor meets listeners beyond the airwaves, capturing the energy and authenticity of live, on-location events throughout WAMC’s seven state listening region, from Plattsburgh to Pittsfield to Poughkeepsie.

Aaron Shellow-Lavine Bio – Aaron is WAMC's Southern Adirondack Bureau Chief, covering politics and community news in and around the region including Saratoga Springs, Lake George, and Gloversville. He graduated from Skidmore College in 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in American Studies with a minor in Black Studies. He lives in Saratoga Springs and when he's not reporting, he's taking his dog on long walks and chatting with neighbors.

Sarah Craig Bio – Sarah carries forward Lena Spencer’s dedication to community service through music, creating friendships, careers and harmonious connection. She has contributed articles to national music publications, freely offers herself as a mentor to emerging artists and presenters, and shares her experience as a panelist at conferences in the US and Canada. She earned her BA in Psychology and Women’s Studies from the University of Vermont. She lives in rural Shushan, NY where she gardens, runs, reads avidly about ecology, theology, psychology and social justice, and serves on the Board of the Cambridge Food Co-Op.

Dr. Dominique Vuvan – Dominique received her Ph.D. in Psychology with a certificate from the Program in Neuroscience from the University of Toronto in 2012. She was a postdoctoral fellow at theInternational Laboratory of Brain, Music, and Sound Research (BRAMS) from 2012 to 2016. Currently, she is Associate Professor in the Psychology Department and Neuroscience Program at Skidmore College. Professor Vuvan is the director of the Skidmore Music and Cognition Laboratory (MaCLab), which focuses on the neurocognition of music with particular interests in expectancy processing, language-music interaction, and individual differences. [CV]

Dan Berggren – A tradition-based songsmith, Dan Berggren writes with honesty, humor and a strong sense of place. His songs explore the many dimensions of home, hard-working folks, taking care of our planet and each other. While his roots are firmly in the Adirondacks where he was raised, Dan's music has branched out across many borders. The award-winning educator and musician has entertained audiences from Kentucky to Michigan, Belgium to Bulgaria, and Zimbabwe to Transylvania.

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

Bluegrass Jam

American Roots Bluegrass

class

Mar 18 • 7 PM

Mark & Jill with Erin Harpe Country Blues Duo
2026-03-22 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Bluegrass

Share:

Mark & Jill

"Watching Mark and Jill, there's no doubt they have a spiritual relationship to blues music and to each other. It's riveting to watch them and feel the music take over the room." – Sarah Craig

Where the Delta Meets the Rio Grande — Blues, Soul & Slide Guitar Fire
Based in Upstate New York, Mark & Jill blend New Orleans groove with Austin soul, crafting a raw, heartfelt acoustic blues sound all their own. With NY Blues Hall of Fame guitarist Mark Tolstrup on resonant slide and fingerstyle guitar, and Texas-born vocalist Jill Tolstrup delivering soulful, powerhouse performances, this duo creates music that is gritty, honest, and timeless.
Their chemistry is unmistakable. Over Mark’s haunting slide guitar, their voices rise and intertwine, channeling the earliest roots of the blues while bringing a fresh, vibrant energy to the tradition. Their songs explore the hard edges of life and the deep joys of being alive—always with spirit and soul.
Drawing from Delta blues, gospel, early roots, and American folk, their live shows move effortlessly from foot-stomping originals to reimagined classics. Whether on a festival stage or in an intimate listening room, Mark & Jill bring an irresistible mix of heat, harmony, and emotional depth.
Twice selected to represent the Northeast at the International Blues Challenge, where they reached the semi-finals, the duo has earned a devoted following among blues lovers, guitar fans, and roots-music audiences throughout the region.

Don’t miss this electrifying duo as they return to Caffè Lena. Come hear where the Delta meets the Rio Grande—and feel the blues come fully alive.

SAMPLE SONG

Erin Harpe Country Blues Duo

Acoustic Roots & Country Blues

The Erin Harpe Country Blues Duo brings irresistible, old-school acoustic blues to the Caffè Lena stage. Praised by Living Blues Magazine as “today’s country blues at its very best,” Erin Harpe is celebrated as “one of the finest fingerpicking acoustic blues singers in the land.”

With her soulful vocals, dazzling Piedmont-style guitar, foot percussion, and kazoo, Erin Harpe delivers a sound that’s both authentic and electrifying. Paired with Jim Countryman’s grooving bass and harmony vocals, the duo creates a full-band feel with just two players—tight, rhythmic, joyful, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Fresh off a wildly successful UK and Spain tour, Erin and Jim bring decades of musical chemistry and a set packed with blues classics, heartfelt originals, and high-energy roots music.

Don’t miss this powerhouse duo bringing true country blues to life—raw, rhythmic, and straight from the heart.

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.

﻿

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Folk Club Kids

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

class

Mar 18 • 10:30 AM

Caffè Lena

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

class

Mar 18 • 2:30 PM

Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam

American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

class

Mar 19 • 1 PM
