Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam
2026-05-28 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter Workshop

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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. ﻿

Price

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$450.00

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Music With Miss Deb
2026-05-29 09:30 - 10:30, 2026-06-12 09:30 - 10:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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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

Price

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Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
2026-05-29 12:00 - 13:00
American Roots Bluegrass Workshop

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Bring your lunch & listen to a playlist curated by a Caffe Lena Community member. For the April edition of the Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour, our playlist curator will be Caffe Lena Member and Volunteer, Mike Salisbury! 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!

﻿

Price

General
$120.00

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Jake Eddy
2026-05-30 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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Flatpicking firepower is coming to Caffè Lena.

Jake Eddy is a West Virginia–born guitarist whose playing is turning heads across the bluegrass world — and far beyond it. Raised in Parkersburg, Jake began his lifelong life on the road at just fourteen, touring professionally on banjo with bluegrass legend Melvin Goins.

Since then, he’s become one of the most exciting young flatpickers on the scene.

Rooted in bluegrass and infused with jazz sensibility, Jake’s guitar work is fast, fluid, and fiercely precise, but never just technical. His self-titled debut album of fiddle tunes features heavy hitters like Grammy-winner Bryan Sutton, along with Rob Ickes and Kenny Smith, signaling that the old guard knows exactly who he is.

Jake has toured with the Becky Buller Band, and performed alongside mandolin master Andy Statman and banjo virtuoso Noam Pikelny. At just 26, he represents a new generation of bluegrass musicians who are equally at home on festival stages and across social media, where his jaw-dropping videos rack up thousands of views thanks to his technical brilliance, humor, and undeniable charisma.

But live? That’s where it really happens.

Jake Eddy is a guitarist through and through. He's inventive, fearless, and deeply rooted in tradition. Expect blazing tunes, rich tone, quick wit, and the kind of musicianship that makes you lean forward in your seat.

If you love flatpicking at the highest level, this is your night.

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.

Price

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$345.00

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Mar 25 • 7 PM

Open Mic
2026-06-01 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-29 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Workshop

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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

Price

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$120.00

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Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Kate Dudding
2026-06-02 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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Since 1995, Kate Dudding has told entertaining, heartwarming and memorable stories at many venues in the Northeast, including festivals, The Norman Rockwell Museum, The New-York Historical Society, Caffè Lena, museums, schools, libraries, senior centers — anywhere people can gather to enjoy stories.

A particular interest of Kate's is giving a voice to people from the past, people who have made a difference in their community, or in the world. Many of her five CDs have won national storytelling awards: Learning About Muslims, Fighting For Our Rights – American Women Mid-20th Century, Young People Who Made a Difference, People Who Made a Difference: Volume 1, and Lighting the Way Home: Stories of Lighthouses and Their Keepers.

Kate's diverse background, B.A. in Psychology and French, M.S. in Computer Science, over 30 years experience in the computer industry (including two patents: System and Method for Prompt-Radiology Image Screening Service Via Satellite, and Method for Automated Web Site Maintenance Via Searching) plus the many storytelling workshops and conferences she has attended, give an interdisciplinary flavor to many of her stories.

Kate has presented workshops at Sharing the Fire (Northeast Storytelling's annual conference), the Northlands Storytelling Conference (Wisconsin), the Timpanogos Storytelling Conference (Utah), the Putnam Storytelling Festival (New York), and at the National Storytelling Conference. She has also published an article in the book Literacy Development in the Storytelling Classroom (winner of a 2010 Storytelling World Award in the category: Special Storytelling Resources), two articles about storytelling in The Museletter, publication of the League for the Advancement of New England Storytelling, and three articles in The Storytelling Magazine, publication of the National Storytelling Network.

As a member of the Advocacy Committee of the National Storytelling Network, Kate created this website: Storytelling — It's News! and it contains summaries of over 400 articles published since June 2003 which describe various uses of storytelling, from classrooms to boardrooms to operating rooms.

Kate is active in the US storytelling community. She is a member of the National Storytelling Network, Northeast Storytelling and Story Circle of the Capital District, a local group of storytellers. She was also a member of the organizing committee for the Riverway Storytelling Festival, which ran for 10 years in the Capital Region of New York State.

Kate and her producing partner, Alden (Joe) Doolittle, were honored to receive the 2015 Brother Blue and Ruth Hill Award "in recognition of extraordinary commitment, dedication and loving encouragement to the storytelling community", presented by the LANES-League for the Advancement of New England Storytelling, now called Northeast Storytelling.

Kate received the 2008 Northeast Region ORACLE Award from the National Storytelling Network. The ORACLE honors regional leadership and service among storytellers. (Photo on right courtesy of Dianna Waite.)

Kate is a producer of: Word Plays, a storytelling series for adults at a performing arts center. Kate has been a producer of Tellabrations '97 – '99, '01 -'19, which drew audiences of 120-400 adults. Kate was a producer of Story Sundays, a storytelling dinner series for adults, which ran for 19 seasons, with over 8,000 listeners.

In addition, Kate is a member of Saratoga Arts.

Kate also continues to use her computer science background to design and maintain websites.

Her website https://www.katedudding.com

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.

Price

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-06-03 14:30 - 17:30
American Roots Bluegrass Workshop

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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

Price

General
$120.00

More Information

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Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Mar 22 • 2 PM

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady

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After School Folk Ensemble with James Gascoyne and Oona Grady
2026-06-03 17:30 - 18:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

Share:

After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

17 weeks starting January 28th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

Music is a gift best shared with friends! Here is an exciting opportunity for youth 7-14 to learn music by playing together.

Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music, including singing, exploring various string instruments, music theory basics, rhythm exercises, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch, confidence in performance practice, and more. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, of course!).

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

Mixed ages and abilities: Open to any level of experience with music; Learn through listening and participation.

Focus on repertoire: Learn classic tunes and songs from the American folk tradition as well as some favorite contemporary songs.

Explore string instruments and singing, learning basic skills: Opportunities to focus on guitar, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, bass, and violin/fiddle*; (*for students interested in violin/fiddle it is recommended that they also be enrolled in private or school lessons).

Learn music fundamentals: Develop strong and steady sense of rhythm; Learn how to listen and hear musically; Explore singing finding one's own unique voice.

Learning valuable life skills: Working in a group setting; Creative contribution and compromise; Being part of a team and playing your part; Building friendships.

Need help with tuition or an instrument? Let us know how we can help by filling out this application for the Matt McCabe Scholarship Fund or email: musicschool@caffelena.org

After School Youth Folk Ensemble classes meet on Wednesdays at Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

The three time slots are 2:45-3:30 pm; 3:40-4:25 pm; & 4:35-5:20 pm. Sign up for one or all!

Session 3 Dates: Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18, 4/8]

(Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA)

End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 6/3 from 5:30-6pm

Students are encouraged to sign up for all three sessions – the more time we spend learning and practicing music together, the tighter our ensemble will be! Discounts of 10% when purchasing more than 1 class at a time.

Meet the instructors:

James Gascoyne is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher based in Saratoga Springs, NY. Originally from Louisville, KY, James has been an active participant in the NYS Capital Region arts community since 2004. He has toured nationally with a variety of groups, at times performing on bass, guitar, drums, and vocals, all the while maintaining an active local performing and recording schedule as well as teaching privately when time allows. James regularly performs with Oona Grady as their duo, Drank The Gold, specializing in traditional Irish and American fiddle tunes and folk songs, as well as original compositions and arrangements, plus newly formed bluegrass quintet The Millstone Rounders. With a passion for sharing his musical experience with others, he’s led various workshops at times on guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and bass for the Caffe Lena School of Music, Dance Flurry Festival, GrassRoots Culture Camp, and Winter Village Music Camp.

Oona Grady is a musician and educator living in Saratoga Springs, New York. She performs with the duo Drank The Gold, a band specializing in creative arrangements of traditional Irish and American fiddle music, folk songs, and original compositions, as well as with other projects including The Grady Girls, Folk Club Kids, Carolyn Shapiro, and newest project The Millstone Rounders. Oona grew up in Ithaca, NY, nurtured by a family and community with a deep love of music. After receiving a grounding in Suzuki violin and Irish fiddle, she began performing with her family band as a teenager, and moved to Ireland at age eighteen to continue her music studies at University College Cork, graduating with a B.Mus. in 2008. Oona works as a recording artist (credits include strings on What a Night'll Do, Dr. Dog), manages a private music teaching studio, and is a founding teacher at the Caffe Lena School of Music. She also works as a guest instructor for weekend workshops and summer programs, including GrassRoots Culture Camp, the Flurry Festival, Winter Village Music Camp, and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute.

#youthclass

Price

General
$345.00

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

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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)

﻿

Price

General
$120.00

More Information

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-06-04 09:00 - 12:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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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

Price

General
$345.00

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-06-04 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-11 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-18 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-25 13:00 - 15:00
American Roots Bluegrass Workshop

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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.

﻿

Price

General
$120.00

More Information

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Mostly Modern Festival Seventh Season Kick-Off Show: Mostly Modern Ensemble
2026-06-04 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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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.

﻿

Price

General
$345.00

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Music With Miss Deb
2026-06-05 09:30 - 10:30
American Roots Bluegrass Workshop

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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

Price

General
$120.00

More Information

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Adam Ezra Group
2026-06-06 16:00 - 18:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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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.

﻿

Price

General
$345.00

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Adam Ezra Group
2026-06-06 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Workshop

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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 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.

﻿

Price

General
$120.00

More Information

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Playwright's Jam
2026-06-07 13:30 - 16:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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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.

Price

General
$345.00

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Jon Pousette-Dart
2026-06-07 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Workshop

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Few artists carry the long arc of American rock and roots music quite like Jon Pousette-Dart.

In the late 1970s, the Pousette-Dart Band emerged as one of the most active touring groups in the country, releasing four albums on Capitol Records and sharing stages with an extraordinary list of artists including Bonnie Raitt, Little Feat, Taj Mahal, Santana, Billy Joel, Journey, James Taylor, Peter Frampton, the Byrds, and the J. Geils Band. Their blend of thoughtful songwriting, strong melodies, and road-tested musicianship earned a devoted following across the U.S.

Pousette-Dart’s musical life began early. Raised in New York City, he picked up the guitar at seven and was performing on national television as a teenager with the band Tony & The Tigers, appearing on shows like Hullabaloo and To Tell the Truth. By the mid-1970s, he had formed the Pousette-Dart Band and quickly moved from college stages to national tours and major-label recordings.

After the band’s initial run, Pousette-Dart continued building a wide-ranging career as a songwriter, slide guitarist, session musician, and producer, working in studios, television, and songwriting circles from New York to Nashville. Along the way he collaborated with respected writers including Darrell Scott, Gary Burr, Kostas, Fred Knobloch, and Gary Nicholson.

In recent years, Pousette-Dart has returned to the intimate acoustic format where his songs feel most at home. Performing in a duo setting with longtime collaborator Jim Chapdelaine, he brings decades of music, stories, and finely crafted songs back to the kind of listening room where the connection between artist and audience is immediate and personal.

SAMPLE SONG

At Caffè Lena, expect a night of well-traveled songs, strong guitar work, and the perspective of a musician who has spent a lifetime on the road and on the stage.

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

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

Price

General
$120.00

More Information

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Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Open Mic
2026-06-08 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-15 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-22 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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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

Price

General
$345.00

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Driftwood
2026-06-12 20:00 - 22:00, 2026-06-13 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Workshop

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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.

Price

General
$120.00

More Information

Similar Events

View All

Online

ONLINE: Songwriting Intensive with Gretchen Peters

Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Mar 22 • 2 PM

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Mar 25 • 10:30 AM

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Songwriting Club
2026-06-13 10:00 - 12:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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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

Price

General
$345.00

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Mar 25 • 7 PM

Gail Ann Dorsey
2026-06-26 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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Philadelphia-born singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Gail Ann Dorsey is widely recognized as one of the most respected bass players and vocalists in modern music.

Many fans know her from her longtime collaboration with David Bowie, where she held the bass chair in Bowie’s touring band from 1995–2004. Her powerful voice was featured in live performances of the Queen/Bowie classic “Under Pressure,” and she contributed to Bowie’s albums Earthling, Reality, and The Next Day, along with several archival releases.

Dorsey’s career has also included recording and touring with an impressive range of artists including Thomas Dolby, Seal, Gwen Stefani, Joan Osborne, Gang of Four, Lenny Kravitz, and Tears for Fears. She is currently a featured vocalist with Blackstar Symphony, led by saxophonist Donny McCaslin.

Alongside these collaborations, Dorsey has continued her own work as a songwriter and performer, releasing the albums The Corporate World, Rude Blue, and I Used to Be…

Her new record, The Appearance of Life, to be released in late Spring.

SAMPLE SONG

Don’t miss the chance to hear this remarkable musician up close in the intimate setting of 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.

Price

General
$345.00

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-07-02 13:00 - 15:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Country Folk Workshop

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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.

﻿

Price

General
$345.00

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