Roomful of Blues
2026-04-18 20:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Blues

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Horn-Powered. House-Rocking. Pure Joy. “Brawny shuffles, swinging horns, searing guitar, passionate vocals and balls-to-the-wall enthusiasm.” – Living Blues “High-voltage swingin’ jump blues and R&B.” – USA Today For more than 55 years, Roomful of Blues has been one of the most electrifying forces in American blues and R&B. Hailed by DownBeat as “in a class by themselves” and dubbed “the best little big band in the blues” by Blues Music Magazine, this world-renowned, horn-powered ensemble delivers jubilant, foot-stomping performances that leave audiences smiling, dancing, and wanting more. Led for the past 25 years by master guitarist Chris Vachon, Roomful of Blues brings together swinging horns, searing guitar, soulful vocals, and impeccable musicianship in a bone-shaking mix of original songs and choice covers—ranging from jump, swing, and proto rock ’n’ roll to funky, contemporary blues. Their larger-than-life sound has earned them five GRAMMY® nominations, seven Blues Music Awards, and two DownBeat International Critics’ Poll awards for Best Blues Band. The band’s signature horn section—anchored by longtime saxophonist Rich Lataille, a member since 1970—remains a cornerstone of their sound, evoking both the honking sax of early rock ’n’ roll and the cool elegance of big-band swing. Today’s lineup sounds as fresh and powerful as ever, with dynamic new vocalist D.D. Bastos adding a soulful, joyful dimension to Roomful’s timeless style. From their beginnings in 1967 as a group of Rhode Island teenagers obsessed with Chicago blues, to international touring across 22 countries, to acclaimed recordings on Alligator Records, Roomful of Blues has built a legacy rooted in passion, evolution, and pure fun. Legends from B.B. King and Otis Rush to Eric Clapton and Carlos Santana have shared stages with them, and fans around the globe continue to line up for their thunderous live shows. As guitarist Chris Vachon puts it: “Playing this music is an immense amount of fun for us. And it’s just as much fun for our audience.” If you caught their sold-out last appearance at Caffè Lena, you already know: Roomful of Blues doesn’t just play the blues—they bring the party. And if this is your first time, get ready for a night of hand-clapping, seat-swaying, joy-filled blues in our listening room. Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

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ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters
2026-04-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Online, Streaming On Zoom
Blues

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A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters For over two decades, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, The Neville Brothers, Patty Loveless, George Strait, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys, a Golden Globe, and numerous other awards. Part One: Sundays 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 charactersUsing detail and imagery in your lyricsUsing your subconscious as your compassHow to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing roomFinding and fine-tuning your melody and chordsStructure: song forms and rhyme schemesIn 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 filmicallyHow to access your subconscious during the writing processHow verse order can change everythingWhy 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 processWhat to do when you’re stuckSongwriting promptsThe care and feeding of your creative selfBring to our first class Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes An open heart and mind How to prepare: In addition, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee, before breakfast, before anything. Do not edit, cross out, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form, rhyme, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$45.55

General
$48.80

Child or Student
$24.40

inclusive of fees

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Dan Berggren & Jeannine Laverty
2026-04-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Blues Singer Songwriter

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Jeannine Laverty and Dan Berggren More than thirty years their story and song collaborations have been strong reminders of the power of wilderness and the passion of its people. Join them as they take you into the woods, down on the farm and up the high peaks, giving you a good view of your hard-working neighbors. Jeannine Laverty has been telling international folk tales since 1979 when her work teaching English as a second language to immigrants in New York City showed her firsthand how the U.S. is made up of cultures from all the countries of the world. Her school residencies and museum performances for children have been awarded funding from the NYS Council on the Arts, the New York Foundation for the Arts, and the National Institute for the Humanities. Laverty has taught weekend workshops in storytelling for adults at Sagamore and other Adirondack sites since 1980. This work has led to her love of telling stories from Adirondack writers. She has mentored and encouraged other storytellers regionally and co-produces storytelling programs at Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs. In 1999, she received the Leadership Award for the Northeast Region from the National Storytelling Network. 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. SAMPLE SONG 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. ​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive. ﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted. ﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 2:30 pm

Price

Member
$45.55

General
$49.89

Child or Student
$24.94

inclusive of fees

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Open Mic
2026-04-20 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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

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

OUR HOSTS

First Monday – Rick Bolton

Second Monday – Carolyn Shapiro

Third Monday – Ray Pashoukos

Fourth Monday – Kate Blain

HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:

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

CONTACT US

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$41.21

Child or Student
$20.61

inclusive of fees

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Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: The Who's “Quadrophenia”
2026-04-21 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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Join us for an evening of deep listening and musical storytelling with Rochmon Record Club, held every third Tuesday of the month at Caffè Lena.
On Tuesday, April 21st, Rochmon Record Club will converge at Caffe’ Lena 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, to listen to, and learn about The Who’s 1973 album, “Quadrophenia”.
The Who’s second full-length “Rock Opera” is set in London and follows a Mod, Jimmy, while he searches for self-worth in a world that shows him no respect. The Who, one of the loudest and most successful touring bands of the early 70’s, was hot off the success of 1969’s “Tommy” and 1971’s “Who’s Next”. The Who brings the Rock! The 17 songs on “Quadrophenia” include “The Real Me”, “I’m The One”, “5.15”, “Bell Boy” and, “Love, Reign o’er Me”.
Doors open at 6:30, and the show begins at 7 pm with a live audio & video presentation by Chuck Vosganian aka “Rochmon”. As always, Rochmon will have some surprises in store! These listening parties are designed to inform, engage, and help us hear familiar music in brand-new ways.
As always Rochmon will have some surprises in store! For Rochmaniacs at a distance, Rochmon Record Club will also be streaming live on Caffe’ Lena TV.
By listening together, we experience the album not just as fans, but as curious explorers—rediscovering the art and intention behind every note. Whether you're a lifelong collector or simply love great music, you'll leave with a deeper connection to the record—and maybe a few surprises along the way.
Come curious. Leave inspired.
﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$34.70

General
$37.96

Child or Student
$18.98

inclusive of fees

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Folk Club Kids
2026-04-22 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$39.04

General
$43.38

Child or Student
$21.69

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-04-22 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$41.21

Child or Student
$20.61

inclusive of fees

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-04-23 09:00 - 12:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$34.70

General
$37.96

Child or Student
$18.98

inclusive of fees

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-04-23 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$39.04

General
$43.38

Child or Student
$21.69

inclusive of fees

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Leslie Mendelson
2026-04-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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With her enchanted voice and emotionally resonant songwriting, Leslie Mendelson has earned the admiration of devoted fans and legendary peers alike. Jackson Browne praises her work as “timeless,” citing echoes of Burt Bacharach and Carole King, while Jakob Dylan of The Wallflowers notes, “Voices like Leslie’s can get away with almost anything… she has few, if any, peers.”

A Grammy Award–nominated artist, Leslie’s music blends folk-rock, pop, and Americana, evoking the spirit of Laurel Canyon with the sharp wit and lived-in grit of Brooklyn, her home for more than two decades.

“This record (After The Party) is an emotional journey,” Mendelson shares. “There are moments of fun where you can turn it up loud and sing along, and moments of reflection. I hope people can take that journey with me

Leslie’s most recent album, After The Party, is a joyful and expansive collection born from collaboration and creative renewal. The album was recorded at Grove Masters, the famed studio owned by Jackson Browne, and produced by an extraordinary trio: the legendary Peter Asher (James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt), in-demand producer Tyler Chester (Madison Cunningham, Sara Bareilles, Sara Watkins), and Mendelson’s longtime collaborator, three-time Grammy winner Steve McEwan.

Joined by an all-star band—including guitarists Waddy Wachtel and John Jorgenson, bassists Leland Sklar and Derrick Anderson, and drummers Jim Keltner and Abe Rounds, Leslie crafted a record that balances sophistication with soul, nostalgia with immediacy.

Producer Peter Asher sums it up best: “Leslie is one of these very rare singers who can combine elegant precision with deep emotional resonance. She has a remarkable voice—and one we need to hear.”

SAMPLE SONG

Join us at Caffè Lena for an intimate evening of song and story with an artist whose voice and writing continue to move listeners deeply.

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$41.21

Child or Student
$20.61

inclusive of fees

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Music With Miss Deb
2026-04-24 09:30 - 10:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$34.70

General
$37.96

Child or Student
$18.98

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
2026-04-24 12:00 - 13:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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Bring your lunch & listen to a playlist curated by a Caffe Lena Community member. For the March edition of the Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour, our playlist curator will be our beloved house manager, Artur Wachala! The D.J. spinning those records will be the Rochmon himself – Chuck “Rochmon” Vosganian.

All are welcome to gather at Lena’s from Noon to 1 PM on the last Friday of each month to enjoy musical memories and new discoveries. The playlist is selected by a different community member each month from the Captain Fun Listening Library of vinyl records in Lena’s lobby. Bring a brown bag lunch. Coffee and tea are provided.

The Captain Fun Listening Library occupying the north wall in the Caffè Lena lobby consists of 1,516 vinyl albums and several hundred CDs selected from Al “Captain Fun” McKenney’s expertly curated collection. This treasure trove of folk, blues and jazz was left us in 2015 and we share it through our monthly listening hour, as Al wished.

Enjoy the memories these records bring back, and dig deep into American roots music.

If you want to create a playlist and host a session, please email Laura Sterling or let us know when you are next at Lena’s!

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$39.04

General
$43.38

Child or Student
$21.69

inclusive of fees

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Jul 2 • 7 PM

Alice Howe & Freebo
2026-04-24 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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Alice Howe’s voice is a rare gift—clear, soulful, and immediately arresting. There’s a timeless quality to her singing that calls back to the golden era of folk and Americana, while feeling fully alive in the present. Her music captures roots music at its best: honest, emotionally rich, and deeply human.

Alice recorded her most recent studio album, Circumstance, at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, stepping onto sacred musical ground shaped by generations of iconic artists. Surrounded by that history, she dug deeper—and delivered a powerful record blending southern rock, folk, blues, and classic soul, all anchored by the sheer beauty and emotional clarity of her voice. Her songwriting is introspective and fearless, reflecting on love, loss, resilience, and self-discovery with warmth and grace.

Joining her is the legendary Freebo—a true folk-rock-blues icon whose career has helped shape American roots music. Best known for his decade-long tenure as Bonnie Raitt’s bassist beginning in 1971, Freebo’s distinctive fretless bass lines can be heard on countless classic recordings. He has toured and collaborated with John Mayall, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Maria Muldaur, Ringo Starr, Dr. John, Neil Young, and many others. Beyond the studio, Freebo has appeared on shows like Saturday Night Live and Midnight Special, The Muppet Show and even performed with Spinal Tap. Freebo is also a gifted songwriter, known for compassionate, thoughtful songs that reflect on life, love, and legacy.

Together, Alice Howe & Freebo share undeniable chemistry. Freebo weaves his lyrical fretless bass into Alice’s soulful, impeccably tuned vocals, creating a harmony-driven performance that showcases two uniquely compelling songwriters in deep conversation with one another.

That connection is beautifully captured on Alice Howe & Freebo Live—a 14-song album recorded in front of a small audience at Rainshadow Recording Studio in Port Townsend, Washington. The result was to capture on record the magic Alice & Freebo make on stage. Their music is steeped in tradition, alive with collaboration, and perfectly suited to the intimacy of a listening room. This is an evening of rich songs, shared stories, and the kind of musical connection that can only happen live.

SAMPLE SONG

Don’t miss this special night at Caffè Lena.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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

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Doors Open: 6:30 pm

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Jul 23 • 7 PM

Poetry Open Mic Featuring Two Poets Laureate: Jay Rogoff & Adonis Richards
2026-04-25 14:00 - 16:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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In honor of National Poetry Month, Caffè Lena Poetry and Laureate Poetry Series present a special event. We have two Poets Laureate and an Open Mic.
This Caffe Lena Poetry and Laureate Poetry Series Poetry Event features Saratoga Springs Poet Laureate Jay Rogoff and Schenectady Poet Laureate Adonis Richards.
Adonis Richards is a Union College program coordinator in the Office of Intercultural Affairs, a writer for Lake George Living Magazine, and the founder of Lucid Writers, an organization that uses poetry and creative writing to build community and emotional intelligence in schools and youth programs. Richards has also worked with Electric City Barn and other local arts initiatives. He currently serves on the board of the Hudson Valley Writers Guild. He is the author of three poetry collections, most recently Reflections of a Hopeless Creative. Richards will serve as Schenectady poet laureate for two years.
Jay Rogoff is Poet Laureate of Saratoga Springs, and his Laureate Poetry Series presents free poetry events in various area locations. His eight books include The Cutoff, The Long Fault, The Art of Gravity, and Loving in Truth: New and Selected Poems. Becoming Poetry: Poets and Their Methods, his book of essays, won the Lewis P. Simpson Award for outstanding literary criticism.
﻿

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$37.96

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$18.98

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Jul 19 • 7 PM

Jane Siberry
2026-04-25 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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Visionary. Uncompromising. Ever-evolving.

Jane Siberry is one of Canada’s most original and influential singer-songwriters—an artist whose work has always existed just beyond easy definition. Best known for transcendent songs like Calling All Angels, Love Is Everything, and Mimi On The Beach, Siberry has built a singular body of work that blends the poetic, the spiritual, and the deeply human.

Her haunting contribution to The Crow soundtrack, It Won’t Rain All the Time, continues to resonate decades later, carrying a quiet power that feels as relevant now as ever. And despite a prolific and influential career, Siberry reflects simply: “I feel like I’m inching my way toward my prime.”

An Artist in an Industry in Flux
Long before it was common, Jane Siberry challenged conventional ideas about how music is shared and valued. After parting ways with Warner/Reprise Records in 1996, she founded her own label, Sheeba, and pioneered a pay-what-you-can model for music downloads—inviting listeners into a trust-based creative economy. When asked what this model trusts in, she answers: “All that is Good.”

In the same spirit, Siberry reimagined the live experience itself. Seeking deeper connection, she began performing intimate “salon” concerts in living rooms and unexpected spaces around the world—from llama farms in New Zealand to garages in Australia, kitchens in Finland, bell towers in rural England, and kominkas in Japan. Audiences describe these performances as intense, heraldic, funny, and deeply trustworthy—spaces where listeners feel free to be fully present, even vulnerable.

About the New Release

After a decade-long recording pause, Siberry returns with Season One: In the Thicket Of Our Own Unconsciousness (affectionately called THICKET). This highly anticipated release is a gathering of songs woven together with musical and spoken interludes she calls “the matrix.” Structured like a musical Netflix series, the album explores flickering consciousness, compassion, and rigorous self-reckoning—what Siberry describes as “the moments in between.”

Co-produced with Renée Cologne, THICKET features longtime collaborators including Rebecca Jenkins, Peter Kiesewalter, Ken Myhr, Rich Brown, Rebecca Campbell, David Ramsden, Marlon Saunders, Alyson Palmer, and Jacob Switzer.

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This is a rare opportunity to experience an artist who has spent a lifetime listening deeply—to the world, to the audience, and to herself. Jane Siberry’s performances are not just concerts; they are shared moments of reflection, curiosity, and connection—perfectly suited to the intimacy of a listening room.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

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ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters
2026-04-26 14:00 - 16:00 | Online, Streaming On Zoom
Singer Songwriter

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A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters

For over two decades, Gretchen Peters has been one of Nashville's most beloved and respected artists. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell, who called her "both a songwriter and a poet,” Peters has accumulated accolades as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, The Neville Brothers, Patty Loveless, George Strait, Bryan Adams and Faith Hill. Her song “Independence Day” won a CMA Song of the Year award in 1995. She has been nominated for 2 Grammys, a Golden Globe, and numerous other awards.

Part One: Sundays 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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

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$20.61

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Tom Rush 2026
2026-04-26 16:00 - 18:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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Few artists have shaped the landscape of American folk music quite like Tom Rush. With his distinctive guitar style, warm expressive voice, and signature wry humor, Rush has captivated audiences for more than six decades, creating concerts that feel less like performances and more like shared musical journeys.
His shows move effortlessly from rib-aching laughter to the tender melancholy of ballads and the driving pulse of gritty blues — a reflection of the tradition he helped build and the future he continues to inspire.
Rush emerged from the Boston coffeehouse scene of the early 1960s, quickly becoming a central figure in the folk revival. His early recordings introduced the world to now-legendary songwriters including Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Jackson Browne, helping usher in the singer-songwriter era. As James Taylor told Rolling Stone, “Tom was not only one of my early heroes, but also one of my main influences.” Garth Brooks has likewise named Rush among his top musical inspirations — a testament to the remarkable reach of his artistry.
Signed to Elektra Records in 1965, Rush released a trio of groundbreaking albums culminating in The Circle Game, widely credited with changing the direction of modern folk. Ever evolving, he embraced the folk-rock movement of the 1970s before returning to the stage revitalized, selling out Boston’s Symphony Hall and launching his influential Club 47® concerts, which paired established artists with emerging voices. Through these concerts, Rush helped bring performers such as Nanci Griffith, Shawn Colvin, Alison Krauss, and Mark O’Connor to wider audiences.
A master interpreter with an uncanny ear for great songs — and a gifted songwriter in his own right — Rush has built a body of work whose influence crosses genres and generations. His retrospective No Regrets traces this extraordinary musical legacy, while later recordings and live releases capture the storytelling and humor that have endeared him to audiences worldwide.
Today, his voice is richer than ever, his playing deeply expressive, and his performances infused with the wisdom of a life devoted to music. Like a fine wine, Tom Rush’s artistry has only grown more nuanced with time — blending tradition with fresh perspective and reminding us why these songs continue to matter.
To experience Tom Rush in an intimate listening room is to witness living folk history — a rare opportunity to hear the music, stories, and spirit that helped define an era and continues to inspire the next.
SAMPLE SONG
Join us for an unforgettable evening with one of the true architects of American folk.
Another thing about Tom Rush is he believes in promoting talented musicians when he comes across them. Brendan Cleary is a musician Tom found playing in a hotel bar. Brendan is accompanying Tom on guitar and backing vocals. Tom will also have Brendan play a few of his own songs.
Brendan was also named a finalist in the 2024 New Hampshire Music Collective Songwriting Competition and he is currently preparing the release of his debut studio album Soundbox, a folk-roots collection of songs shaped by his journey through addiction, recovery, and redemption.
SAMPLE SONG
Subscribe to stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV
﻿Note: Caffe Lena does not permit ticket reselling above face value. Tickets purchased for the purpose of resale may be canceled without notice, and refunds for such purchases will not be granted.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$34.70

General
$37.96

Child or Student
$18.98

inclusive of fees

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Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Sam Robbins

Singer Songwriter

event

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Jun 27 • 8 PM

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Jul 2 • 7 PM

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Jul 19 • 7 PM

Tom Rush 2026
2026-04-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

Share:

Few artists have shaped the landscape of American folk music quite like Tom Rush. With his distinctive guitar style, warm expressive voice, and signature wry humor, Rush has captivated audiences for more than six decades, creating concerts that feel less like performances and more like shared musical journeys.

His shows move effortlessly from rib-aching laughter to the tender melancholy of ballads and the driving pulse of gritty blues — a reflection of the tradition he helped build and the future he continues to inspire.

Rush emerged from the Boston coffeehouse scene of the early 1960s, quickly becoming a central figure in the folk revival. His early recordings introduced the world to now-legendary songwriters including Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Jackson Browne, helping usher in the singer-songwriter era. As James Taylor told Rolling Stone, “Tom was not only one of my early heroes, but also one of my main influences.” Garth Brooks has likewise named Rush among his top musical inspirations — a testament to the remarkable reach of his artistry.

Signed to Elektra Records in 1965, Rush released a trio of groundbreaking albums culminating in The Circle Game, widely credited with changing the direction of modern folk. Ever evolving, he embraced the folk-rock movement of the 1970s before returning to the stage revitalized, selling out Boston’s Symphony Hall and launching his influential Club 47® concerts, which paired established artists with emerging voices. Through these concerts, Rush helped bring performers such as Nanci Griffith, Shawn Colvin, Alison Krauss, and Mark O’Connor to wider audiences.

A master interpreter with an uncanny ear for great songs — and a gifted songwriter in his own right — Rush has built a body of work whose influence crosses genres and generations. His retrospective No Regrets traces this extraordinary musical legacy, while later recordings and live releases capture the storytelling and humor that have endeared him to audiences worldwide.

Today, his voice is richer than ever, his playing deeply expressive, and his performances infused with the wisdom of a life devoted to music. Like a fine wine, Tom Rush’s artistry has only grown more nuanced with time — blending tradition with fresh perspective and reminding us why these songs continue to matter.

To experience Tom Rush in an intimate listening room is to witness living folk history — a rare opportunity to hear the music, stories, and spirit that helped define an era and continues to inspire the next.

SAMPLE SONG

Join us for an unforgettable evening with one of the true architects of American folk.

Another thing about Tom Rush is he believes in promoting talented musicians when he comes across them. Brendan Cleary is a musician Tom found playing in a hotel bar. Brendan is accompanying Tom on guitar and backing vocals. Tom will also have Brendan play a few of his own songs.

Brendan was also named a finalist in the 2024 New Hampshire Music Collective Songwriting Competition and he is currently preparing the release of his debut studio album Soundbox, a folk-roots collection of songs shaped by his journey through addiction, recovery, and redemption.

SAMPLE SONG

Subscriber to stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV.

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$39.04

General
$43.38

Child or Student
$21.69

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Caffè Lena

Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour

American Roots

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Jun 26 • 12 PM

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Jul 2 • 7 PM

Clawhammer Banjo with Carolyn Shapiro
2026-04-28 15:00 - 16:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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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.
4-weeks $120 3 pm – 4 pm on Tuesdays
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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

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$34.70

General
$37.96

Child or Student
$18.98

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Jul 19 • 7 PM

The Steel Wheels
2026-04-28 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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After twenty years of making music together, The Steel Wheels are still growing, still pushing, and still finding new ground. This summer, the Virginia based band marks that milestone with their ninth studio album, The Steel Wheels, a record that captures both their hard earned musical maturity and their restless sense of adventure.

Recorded live in the studio with producer D. James Goodwin, the album reflects the way this band has always worked best, listening closely, responding in real time, and letting songs come alive together in the room. The result moves effortlessly between harmony rich acoustic roots and the fuller folk rock sound the band has grown into over two decades, balancing joy, humor, and energy with moments of deep reflection and tenderness.

With thoughtful songwriting from Trent Wagler and the unmistakable interplay of Eric Brubaker, Jay Lapp, Kevin Garcia, and Jeremy Darrow, these songs explore connection, attention, and what truly matters beneath the noise of daily life. The Steel Wheels remain a band defined by trust, curiosity, and a deep commitment to the music and to one another.

SAMPLE SONG

Caffè Lena is proud to welcome The Steel Wheels for an evening of beautifully crafted songs, shared stories, and the rare chemistry that only comes from years spent making music side by side.

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$39.04

General
$43.38

Child or Student
$21.69

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Caffè Lena

Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour

American Roots

event

Jun 26 • 12 PM

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Sam Robbins

Singer Songwriter

event

Sold Out

Jun 27 • 8 PM

Caffè Lena

An Evening with Kate Taylor

Singer Songwriter

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Jul 2 • 7 PM

Folk Club Kids
2026-04-29 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

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$37.96

General
$41.21

Child or Student
$20.61

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Jul 23 • 7 PM

After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-04-29 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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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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Doors Open: 6:30 pm

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Jul 19 • 7 PM

Bluegrass Instrumental Course with Bruce Thompson and Sam Katz
2026-04-29 17:45 - 19:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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Bluegrass Instrumental Course – with Bruce Thompson and Sam Katz

April 29, May 6, 27 and June 3

5:45 pm – 7:45 pm

$195

For instruments: Guitar, Fiddle, Mandolin, Bass, Banjo, Dobro

Experience level: students should be familiar with basic chords and have done some melodic playing as well.

Instructors: Bruce Thompson and Sam Katz

Summary: This course is intended for folks interested in learning bluegrass instrumentals (fiddle tunes) commonly played at jams. Each week we will focus on at least one instrumental tune. Students will have the time to listen and prepare tunes in advance of each class Links to audio and/or video examples as well as music (standard notation and tabs) will be provided. Each class will review the tune as a group then divide into small groups to work on playing the tune together. We will also discuss learning techniques and tools such as StrumMachine and a metronome. Students will become familiar with the tunes covered in the course and develop techniques to quickly learn new tunes.

Topics:

Memorizing, learning and mastering a melody

Learning the rhythm part and accompaniment

Switching from rhythm to lead parts

Setting the tempo, kickoffs and endings

Leading the tune in a group

Improvising ideas, tips and techniques

Jam etiquette

Possible Tunes (subject to change):

Angeline the Baker (D)

Old Joe Clark (A)

Soldier’s Joy (D)

Cold Frosty Morn (Am)

Big Sandy River (A)

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$39.04

General
$43.38

Child or Student
$21.69

inclusive of fees

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-04-30 09:00 - 12:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson

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

10 Thursdays starting April 2

Click a time below to sign up:

Beginner 9:15 am – 10:10 am

Intermediate 10:15 am – 11:10 am

Intermediate / Advanced 11:15 am – 12:10 pm

Not sure what class might work best for you email: matt@caffelena.org

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$41.21

Child or Student
$20.61

inclusive of fees

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-04-30 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$34.70

General
$37.96

Child or Student
$18.98

inclusive of fees

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Jul 19 • 7 PM

Peak Jazz Series: Charlie Ballantine
2026-04-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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Charlie Ballantine is an artist whose music moves fluidly between jazz, folk, rock, blues, and roots traditions without ever losing its sense of purpose or groove.

Named one of the Top 200 Living Guitarists by All About Jazz and a Rising Star in DownBeat Magazine’s Critics Poll, Ballantine is praised for a style that is both technically masterful and deeply expressive. JazzTimes describes his playing as “teeming with intricate grooves and maniacal precision,” while Vintage Guitar Magazine notes that “jazz, rock, and folk music peacefully coexist in Charlie Ballantine’s world.”

Ballantine’s original compositions—featured on albums like Vonnegut and Cold Coffee—are imaginative, cinematic, and emotionally resonant. Alongside his original work, he shows a deep reverence for the jazz tradition, interpreting standards such as “My One and Only Love” and “East of the Sun,” and releasing an ambitious double album dedicated entirely to the music of Thelonious Monk.

After graduating from Indiana University’s prestigious Jacobs School of Music under legendary educator David Baker, Ballantine quickly became a fixture of the Midwest jazz scene. His award-winning album Life Is Brief: The Music of Bob Dylan earned international recognition and was named one of All About Jazz’s Top Ten Jazz Albums of the Year, praised for bringing fresh improvisational insight to Dylan’s songbook.

As a bandleader, Ballantine tours extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada, appearing at major festivals including the Detroit Jazz Festival, Rochester Jazz Festival, Winnipeg International Jazz Festival, and Indianapolis Jazz Festival. He is also a highly sought-after collaborator, having performed with artists such as Rob Dixon, Emmett Cohen, and Amanda Gardier.

SAMPLE SONG

Rooted in tradition but driven by curiosity, Charlie Ballantine’s music is thoughtful, adventurous, and richly human—perfectly suited for an intimate listening room experience.

﻿The Peak Jazz Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon in memory of Corrine Simonds.

​​Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Livestream available for $5 – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$39.04

General
$43.38

Child or Student
$21.69

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Music With Miss Deb
2026-05-01 09:30 - 10:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$41.21

Child or Student
$20.61

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Roy Book Binder Tribute / Live Stream
2026-05-01 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter

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Roy Bookbinder was to play Caffe Lena on May 1st. On March 3rd, we lost this legend of country blues, and one of Caffe Lena’s longest-serving performers.
In his memory, we will be streaming a live watch party on YouTube, Facebook and Caffe Lena TV featuring highlights of his last four shows at the Caffe.
THIS IS THE YOUTUBE LINK
The virtual tip jar will be open, and all donations will go to South Carolina’s Piedmont Blues Preservation Society in Roy’s name.
We hope you'll enjoy this tribute to Roy.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$34.70

General
$37.96

Child or Student
$18.98

inclusive of fees

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Livingston Taylor with opener Alex Radus
2026-05-02 16:00 - 18:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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Born in Boston and raised in North Carolina, Livingston is the fourth child in a deeply musical family that includes Alex, James, Kate, and Hugh Taylor. He picked up his first guitar at age 13 and recorded his first album at just 18, launching a career defined by thoughtful songwriting, stylistic range, and an easy, welcoming stage presence.

From Top 40 hits like “I Will Be in Love with You” and “I’ll Come Running,” to beloved songs such as “I Can Dream of You” and “Boatman” (both recorded by his brother James), Livingston’s catalog is rich with well-crafted, introspective songs that resonate across generations. His repertoire moves effortlessly between folk, pop, jazz, gospel, and Broadway standards, blending storytelling, warmth, and musical depth.

A lifelong road warrior, Livingston has shared stages with artists including Joni Mitchell, Linda Ronstadt, Fleetwood Mac, Jimmy Buffett, and Jethro Tull, and continues to tour internationally. His shows are peppered with personal stories, humor, and the kind of relaxed authenticity that makes every audience feel like they’re in on the conversation.

In addition to performing, Livingston is a full professor at Berklee College of Music, where he has taught his celebrated Stage Performance course since 1989. His book Stage Performance extends those lessons to artists everywhere, reflecting a career devoted not only to music, but to mentoring the next generation.

SAMPLE SONG

In recognition of his five decades of music-making, January 18, 2017 was officially declared “Livingston Taylor Day”by the City of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

We’re thrilled to welcome Livingston Taylor back to Caffè Lena for two intimate shows on Friday, May 2. Choose your show (or come to both!)—and settle in for an evening of songs, stories, and masterful musicianship from one of folk music’s most enduring voices.

Opening for Livingston is Alex Radus – a “versatile crooner” (UMC Nashville) and “master guitarist” (Courier News), but his songwriting takes center stage. Known for his signature “genre whiplash,” he blends whimsical and poignant storytelling with an eclectic mix of Americana, swing, blues, and folk.

John Gorka says, “Alex Radus is a remarkable artist. He is an excellent guitarist, songwriter and singer. He moves across multiple genres with effortless virtuosity. Whether playing solo or with an ensemble, Alex is surely worth going out of your way to hear.”

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV – 100% of live stream tickets on CaffeLenaTV benefit the artists. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$39.04

General
$43.38

Child or Student
$21.69

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Jun 26 • 12 PM

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