Bluegrass Jam
2026-05-20 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-05-21 09:00 - 12:30, 2026-06-04 09:00 - 12:30
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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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
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-05-21 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-04 13:00 - 15:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

﻿

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Doors Open: 6:00 pm

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Music With Miss Deb
2026-05-22 09:30 - 10:30
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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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
$5.00

General
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Child or Student
$5.00

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Sawyer Fredericks
2026-05-22 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Sawyer Fredericks is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter from a small family farm in upstate New York, known for his emotive vocals, honest storytelling, and raw, roots-driven sound. At just 16, he gained national attention as the winner of Season 8 of The Voice, captivating millions with his soulful interpretations and grounded presence. Since then, Sawyer has carved his own artistic path, choosing independence and creative freedom over industry expectations.

His debut album A Good Storm established him as a rising force, while his self-released albums Hide Your Ghost and Flowers For You deepened his artistic identity, earning critical acclaim and top honors at the Independent Music Awards. Songs like “Born” and “Amen” resonated far beyond the folk world, landing on SiriusXM, curated folk playlists, and playlists celebrating authentic modern songwriting.

In 2025, Sawyer released No Need To Wonder, a folk-rock album shaped by themes of home, environmental responsibility, personal reflection, and the ties that bind us to the land and to one another. The work reflects his lived experience — rooted, introspective, and deeply connected to nature.

SAMPLE SONG

Whether performing solo or with his band, Sawyer invites audiences into an intimate musical space where vulnerability, story, and melody become shared ground.

Praise for Sawyer Fredericks:

“Fredericks has put on full display his talents, from songwriting to singing and a command of his instrument that continues to grow.” – The Daily Gazette

“I’m convinced he would’ve had a place in The Band if they ever needed a distinctive rural voice.” – Americana Highways

Expect a performance that’s stirring, soulful, and full of heart.

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

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

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Sawyer Fredericks
2026-05-23 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

Share:

Sawyer Fredericks is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter from a small family farm in upstate New York, known for his emotive vocals, honest storytelling, and raw, roots-driven sound. At just 16, he gained national attention as the winner of Season 8 of The Voice, captivating millions with his soulful interpretations and grounded presence. Since then, Sawyer has carved his own artistic path, choosing independence and creative freedom over industry expectations.

His debut album A Good Storm established him as a rising force, while his self-released albums Hide Your Ghost and Flowers For You deepened his artistic identity, earning critical acclaim and top honors at the Independent Music Awards. Songs like “Born” and “Amen” resonated far beyond the folk world, landing on SiriusXM, curated folk playlists, and playlists celebrating authentic modern songwriting.

In 2025, Sawyer released No Need To Wonder, a folk-rock album shaped by themes of home, environmental responsibility, personal reflection, and the ties that bind us to the land and to one another. The work reflects his lived experience — rooted, introspective, and deeply connected to nature.

SAMPLE SONG

Whether performing solo or with his band, Sawyer invites audiences into an intimate musical space where vulnerability, story, and melody become shared ground.

Praise for Sawyer Fredericks:

“Fredericks has put on full display his talents, from songwriting to singing and a command of his instrument that continues to grow.” – The Daily Gazette

“I’m convinced he would’ve had a place in The Band if they ever needed a distinctive rural voice.” – Americana Highways

Expect a performance that’s stirring, soulful, and full of heart.

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

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Open Mic
2026-05-25 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-08 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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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: 6:00 pm

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Folk Club Kids
2026-05-27 10:30 - 11:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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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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$5.00

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Child or Student
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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-05-27 14:30 - 17:30, 2026-06-03 14:30 - 17:30
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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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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Bluegrass Instrumental Course with Bruce Thompson and Sam Katz
2026-05-27 17:45 - 19:30
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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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
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-05-28 09:00 - 12:30
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson

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

10 Thursdays starting April 2

Click a time below to sign up:

Beginner 9:15 am – 10:10 am

Intermediate 10:15 am – 11:10 am

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

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

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-05-28 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-11 13:00 - 15:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Music With Miss Deb
2026-05-29 09:30 - 10:30, 2026-06-05 09:30 - 10:30, 2026-06-12 09:30 - 10:30
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

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Open Mic
2026-06-01 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Caffè Lena

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Mar 16 • 7 PM

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-06-03 17:30 - 18:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Bluegrass Instrumental Course with Bruce Thompson and Sam Katz
2026-06-03 17:45 - 19:30
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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)

﻿

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Mostly Modern Festival Seventh Season Kick-Off Show: Mostly Modern Ensemble
2026-06-04 19:00 - 21:00
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Mostly Modern Festival returns to Caffe Lena with its Seventh Season Kick-Off Show on June 4th! Featuring an all-star cast. Tonight features tapas, a tasting and variety of what Mostly Modern is all about. Sold out for 3 years in a row ~ secure your seats!

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.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

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Member
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Adam Ezra Group
2026-06-06 16:00 - 18:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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Prepare for an evening of music that’s more than just a performance—Adam Ezra Group brings connection, community, and heart to every note they play. Known for their powerful blend of Americana, activism, and storytelling, this band has carved out a unique space in the music world, winning over fans one show at a time.

Led by the dynamic and passionate Adam Ezra, the group’s journey is as inspiring as their music. With no traditional industry backing, they’ve built their reputation through tireless touring and grassroots connections, earning accolades like the New England Music Award’s Americana Act of the Year (2023). From intimate living room concerts to festival stages, their commitment to creating meaningful experiences for their audience is unmatched.

The band’s sound is a captivating mix of heartfelt lyrics, rich fiddle melodies from Corinna Smith, driving rhythms from Alex Martin on percussion, and the deep grooves of Poche Ponce on bass. Their performances are deeply personal, often featuring songs co-created with their fan community, reflecting the band’s ethos of inclusivity and shared purpose.

With a setlist that ranges from soul-stirring ballads to foot-stomping anthems, an Adam Ezra Group show is a celebration of music’s power to connect and uplift. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, this is a show that will leave you inspired.

SAMPLE SONG

Join us at Caffè Lena for an evening of unforgettable music and connection with one of today’s most compelling bands.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. 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
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General
$5.00

Child or Student
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Adam Ezra Group
2026-06-06 20:00 - 22:00
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Share:

Prepare for an evening of music that’s more than just a performance—Adam Ezra Group brings connection, community, and heart to every note they play. Known for their powerful blend of Americana, activism, and storytelling, this band has carved out a unique space in the music world, winning over fans one show at a time.

Led by the dynamic and passionate Adam Ezra, the group’s journey is as inspiring as their music. With no traditional industry backing, they’ve built their reputation through tireless touring and grassroots connections, earning accolades like the New England Music Award’s Americana Act of the Year (2023). From intimate living room concerts to festival stages, their commitment to creating meaningful experiences for their audience is unmatched.

The band’s sound is a captivating mix of heartfelt lyrics, rich fiddle melodies from Corinna Smith, driving rhythms from Alex Martin on percussion, and the deep grooves of Poche Ponce on bass. Their performances are deeply personal, often featuring songs co-created with their fan community, reflecting the band’s ethos of inclusivity and shared purpose.

With a setlist that ranges from soul-stirring ballads to foot-stomping anthems, an Adam Ezra Group show is a celebration of music’s power to connect and uplift. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, this is a show that will leave you inspired.

SAMPLE SONG

Join us at Caffè Lena for a night of unforgettable music and connection with one of today’s most compelling bands.

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Subscribe for unlimited live streaming, two week access to recent shows, and Caffe Lena's video archive.

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

﻿

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Playwright's Jam
2026-06-07 13:30 - 16:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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Looking for an opportunity to connect with local writers, actors, and directors? Want to share a theater piece you’re writing?

Join us for the 1st Sunday monthly Playwright’s Jams!

A monthly meetup hosted by Caffe Lena for local writers, actors & directors

The First Sunday of the Month 1:30pm- 4:00pm

Doors open at 1:00; Casting begins at 1:15pm and Readings start at 1:30pm!

Bring your great ideas, your new scripts, your edits and your friends for an inspiring afternoon fo theater in the making.

Playwrights should bring a highlighted script for each of their actors and one extra for stage directions
Bring a short scene (7-8 minutes). Cast your actors from the audience, including your fellow playwrights. Give them brief directions and then put them on stage to read your script. We’ll go around the room after the reading and let everyone give a “popcorn” reaction (one word!).
Each meeting will include 6 or 7 scenes selected at random from those submitted. After the readings we’ll have time to hang out and get acquainted.
This event will be co-hosted by Michael Wells-Oakes and Vivian Nesbitt
Playwright Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.

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Doors Open: 6:30 pm

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Member
$5.00

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Child or Student
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Driftwood
2026-06-12 20:00 - 22:00, 2026-06-13 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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Hailing from Upstate New York, Driftwood brings their genre-blending sound to Caffè Lena for an unforgettable evening of music that’s equal parts heartfelt and high-energy. Known for their roots in folk, bluegrass, and rock, the band’s live shows are a celebration. They are dynamic, intimate, and brimming with joy.

With Joe Kollar, Dan Forsyth, Claire Byrne, and Joey Arcuri at the helm, Driftwood showcases a unique, collaborative approach to songwriting. Their latest album, December Last Call, marks a creative homecoming for the band, blending powerful new sounds with the live energy they’re so beloved for.

From foot-stomping anthems to hushed, poignant moments, Driftwood creates a show that feels personal, communal and like a place where everyone belongs.

Sample Song

Expect soaring harmonies, electrifying instrumentals, and stories that resonate deeply with every listener.

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
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Songwriting Club
2026-06-13 10:00 - 12:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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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

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