Tim Easton
2026-08-30 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic

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Tim Easton has lived the kind of life that seeps into every note he writes. Born in Upstate New York and raised between Tokyo and Ohio, Easton’s path as a songwriter took shape on the streets of Europe, where he spent years busking in cities like Paris, London, and Prague. That time became the foundation of his songwriting: vivid, unfiltered stories told with honesty and grit. After returning to the U.S., Easton recorded his debut Special 20 in Nashville and quickly built momentum, signing with EMI Publishing and later New West Records. His breakthrough album The Truth About Us featured members of Wilco, followed by Break Your Mother’s Heart, which earned four stars from Rolling Stone and praise for its “novelist’s sense of humanity.” More than two decades into an international touring career, Easton continues to evolve. His latest release, fIREHORSE is his fourteenth album, released on Easton’s own label, Campfire Propaganda this past February. Recorded primarily in Nashville, the ten-song collection features production from multi-instrumentalist Kevin Nolan and contributions from the rhythm section of Lainey Wilson’s touring band. Together they push Easton’s sound across country-blues, folk, pop, and classic rock while preserving the intimate storytelling he’s honed since his 1997 debut Special 20. The songs draw from Easton’s years as a European street musician, his mentorship under legends such as Townes Van Zandt and Willie Nelson, and his lifelong commitment to travel, giving the album its wandering spirit and lived-in detail. Offstage, Easton is equally prolific: over 130 original songs available online, five published books of poetry and essays, and a unique visual art practice creating hand-painted album jackets, each one a one-of-a-kind piece. His creative alter ego, DARK WATSON, resurfaced in 2025 with a limited vinyl release, adding yet another layer to his expansive artistic world. Whether leading songwriting workshops, touring across continents, or stepping onto intimate stages like ours, Tim Easton brings a lifetime of stories, and the rare ability to make them feel like your own. Join us for an evening with a true troubadour with the stories and songs to prove it. 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

Price

Member
$5.00

General
$5.00

Child or Student
$5.00

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Aug 31 • 7 PM

Open Mic with Special Guest Host Janis Ian
2026-08-31 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic

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OPEN MIC NIGHT

For one unforgettable night, Grammy-winning songwriter and Caffè Lena Artist-in-Residence Janis Ian takes the reins as host of our legendary Open Mic.

Whether you're stepping onto the stage or cheering from the audience, this is your chance to experience one of Caffè Lena's most beloved traditions with one of folk music's greatest storytellers. Perform an original song, share a favorite tune, read a poem, or simply soak up an evening of remarkable local talent in the warm, attentive atmosphere that has made Caffè Lena's Open Mic an award-winning community tradition for more than 30 years.

What to Expect

– There will be 20 available slots to perform one song each. Performers will be chosen by lottery.

– You can enter online via the link on this page beginning on August 3rd

– Or, you can enter your name in person at Caffè Lena's regularly scheduled open mic throughout the month of August. The more you attend, the more times you can enter your name.

– The Lottery winners will get to be introduced by Janis, perform their song, and then meet her at the signing table at the end of the night.

Selected entrants will be contacted by phone to confirm their spot. We're drawing & calling winners on Tuesday August 25th. If we can't reach you, we'll follow up by email or text — please respond promptly, as unconfirmed spots will be given to the next entrant.

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.

Click Here to Enter the Performer Lottery

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:00 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Johanna Martin
2026-09-01 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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After living her early adulthood in New York City and South Florida, Johanna Martin returned to her native Upstate New York in 2016 and calls Saratoga Springs home. She was introduced to storytelling after meeting Jeannine Laverty, one of the hosts of our very own Open Mic Storytelling night here at Caffè Lena. She discovered it was a perfect way to combine her love of writing and public speaking. She has been invited to participate in local storytelling shows and competed in the Adirondack Center for Writing & North Country Public Radio’s HOWL Story Slam multiple times, winning the Grand Slam title in 2024. Through storytelling Johanna uses humor and honesty to illuminate meaning and understanding in her own life, while at the same time she seeks to uncover that which unites us all.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Loudon Wainwright III with Special Guest Emily Barnes
2026-09-02 19:00 - 21:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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For more than five decades, Loudon Wainwright III has been one of America's most original and fearless songwriters. A master storyteller with a razor-sharp wit and a remarkable gift for finding humor and heartbreak in everyday life, he has built a body of work unlike anyone else's in contemporary folk music.

Since bursting onto the scene with the 1972 hit "Dead Skunk," Loudon has released more than 30 albums, earned a Grammy Award, and inspired generations of songwriters with songs that are by turns hilarious, heartbreaking, self-deprecating, and profoundly insightful. His music has been recorded by artists including Bonnie Raitt, Johnny Cash, Earl Scruggs, and Rufus Wainwright, while his acting career has included roles in films by Martin Scorsese, Christopher Guest, Tim Burton, and Judd Apatow, as well as appearances on M.A.S.H. and Broadway.

Now in his sixth decade as a performer, Loudon continues to write and tour with the curiosity, honesty, and sharp observational eye that have made him one of folk music's most enduring voices. His latest release, Loudon Live in London, captures an artist still at the top of his game, delivering songs that are as poignant and funny today as ever.

SAMPLE SONG

Whether reflecting on family, aging, love, loss, or the absurdities of modern life, Loudon invites audiences to laugh, reflect, and recognize themselves in his songs. His concerts are intimate conversations as much as performances, filled with unforgettable stories, impeccable musicianship, and the unmistakable charm of a true troubadour.

Join us for an evening with one of the most influential singer-songwriters of our time, whose songs continue to remind us that life's greatest truths are often found in its smallest moments.

Joining Loudon is singer – songwriter Emily Barnes.

“​Emily Barnes is more than just a musician; she’s a storyteller that sets the lives of her characters to music.” – Divide and Conquer

Emily Barnes writes songs that find the extraordinary in ordinary lives.

Raised in the tiny town of Johnsonburg, New Jersey, she began writing songs on the stone steps of her family's 200-year-old home. Since then, she's built a devoted following the old-fashioned way—one performance, one story, and one listener at a time.

Her contemporary folk songs are filled with memorable characters, honest observations, and a voice that is both powerful and deeply expressive. Whether she's writing about love, resilience, or the quiet moments that shape our lives, Barnes has a gift for making deeply personal stories feel universal.

A winner of the 2025 Hey Nonny Songwriting Contest and the 2026 COMBO Music Songwriting Contest, Barnes is quickly becoming one of folk music's most compelling new voices.

Emily Barnes opens the evening for Loudon Wainwright III, bringing thoughtful songwriting and heartfelt storytelling to the Caffè Lena stage.

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

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

School of Music Slow Jam
2026-09-03 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-09-10 13:00 - 15:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Loudon Wainwright III with Special Guest Emily Barnes
2026-09-03 19:00 - 21:00
Folk Other Storytelling

Share:

For more than five decades, Loudon Wainwright III has been one of America's most original and fearless songwriters. A master storyteller with a razor-sharp wit and a remarkable gift for finding humor and heartbreak in everyday life, he has built a body of work unlike anyone else's in contemporary folk music.

Since bursting onto the scene with the 1972 hit "Dead Skunk," Loudon has released more than 30 albums, earned a Grammy Award, and inspired generations of songwriters with songs that are by turns hilarious, heartbreaking, self-deprecating, and profoundly insightful. His music has been recorded by artists including Bonnie Raitt, Johnny Cash, Earl Scruggs, and Rufus Wainwright, while his acting career has included roles in films by Martin Scorsese, Christopher Guest, Tim Burton, and Judd Apatow, as well as appearances on M.A.S.H. and Broadway.

Now in his sixth decade as a performer, Loudon continues to write and tour with the curiosity, honesty, and sharp observational eye that have made him one of folk music's most enduring voices. His latest release, Loudon Live in London, captures an artist still at the top of his game, delivering songs that are as poignant and funny today as ever.

SAMPLE SONG

Whether reflecting on family, aging, love, loss, or the absurdities of modern life, Loudon invites audiences to laugh, reflect, and recognize themselves in his songs. His concerts are intimate conversations as much as performances, filled with unforgettable stories, impeccable musicianship, and the unmistakable charm of a true troubadour.

Join us for an evening with one of the most influential singer-songwriters of our time, whose songs continue to remind us that life's greatest truths are often found in its smallest moments.

Joining Loudon is singer – songwriter Emily Barnes.

“​Emily Barnes is more than just a musician; she’s a storyteller that sets the lives of her characters to music.” – Divide and Conquer

Emily Barnes writes songs that find the extraordinary in ordinary lives.

Raised in the tiny town of Johnsonburg, New Jersey, she began writing songs on the stone steps of her family's 200-year-old home. Since then, she's built a devoted following the old-fashioned way—one performance, one story, and one listener at a time.

Her contemporary folk songs are filled with memorable characters, honest observations, and a voice that is both powerful and deeply expressive. Whether she's writing about love, resilience, or the quiet moments that shape our lives, Barnes has a gift for making deeply personal stories feel universal.

A winner of the 2025 Hey Nonny Songwriting Contest and the 2026 COMBO Music Songwriting Contest, Barnes is quickly becoming one of folk music's most compelling new voices.

SAMPLE SONG

Emily Barnes opens the evening for Loudon Wainwright III, bringing thoughtful songwriting and heartfelt storytelling to the Caffè Lena stage.

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

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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

A Tribute to Peter Yarrow with Bethany Yarrow & Gordon Titcomb
2026-09-04 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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Peter Yarrow's music reached millions through classics like Puff, the Magic Dragon, If I Had a Hammer, and Blowin' in the Wind. But beyond the recordings was a lifelong belief that music could bring people together across differences and remind us of our shared humanity. That belief remains at the heart of this special evening.

In this moving tribute to her father, Peter Yarrow, Bethany Yarrow celebrates the songs that helped define a generation and continue to inspire people today. As the daughter of Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary, Bethany grew up surrounded by music that wasn't just meant to be heard—it was meant to be sung together. These were songs that united voices at civil rights marches, peace rallies, and gatherings where people believed music could help build a better world.

Joined by acclaimed multi-instrumentalist Gordon Titcomb, Bethany shares beloved songs from the Peter, Paul and Mary repertoire alongside stories of growing up in one of America's most influential folk families, original music, and reflections on carrying that tradition into a new generation.

As Bethany says:

"I miss my dad more than I have words to express, but I hear his voice constantly whispering, 'SING! Just keep on singing!'… Now, more than ever, we need music to bring us together."

Part concert, part storytelling, and part communal singalong, this is an evening that celebrates not only one of folk music's most beloved voices, but the enduring power of songs to connect us, comfort us, and remind us that we are never singing alone.

SAMPLE SONG

In addition to her work as a musician, Bethany is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, environmental activist, and co-executive director of the Waterfall Unity Alliance. Her performances draw on a lifetime immersed in folk music, storytelling, and social engagement, creating experiences that are both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Join us for a moving evening celebrating the songs that have helped shape America and continue to light the way forward.

SONGS OF LOVE & FREEDOM​​​

The one song that will never end is the song of a human soul longing to be free. ​

“Oh freedom. Oh freedom. Oh freedom over me. We are standing here today with our courage and our faith. Spirit of Love, come and hold us, set us free.”

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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Aug 26 • 7 PM

Mary Gauthier w/ sp. guest Jaimee Harris: The 20th Anniversary of Mercy Now
2026-09-05 20:00 - 22:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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Mary Gauthier w/ special guest Jaimee Harris: Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Mercy Now

This is a celebration of her incredible album and song, Mercy Now. This critically acclaimed folk-country song is so personal, and yet a universal plea for grace, compassion, and redemption in the face of familial struggles, personal shortcomings, and political turmoil. Mercy Now won widespread acclaim and propelled Gauthier into the spotlight, making the Top Ten Albums list in many publications.

Mary says, "I am excited to announce that this year is the 20th Anniversary of the release of Mercy Now, a record that changed my life. We are celebrating with a vinyl re-release and a tour. I’m not really one to look back, but reflecting on these ten songs feels more like standing still long enough to take stock, and appreciating the grace that brought them into existence. These shows will be a continuation of a long conversation with kindred souls, like you, who understand the alchemy of song. Kindred souls who know a sad song doesn’t make the darkness deeper; it gives it a shape, a name, shines the light on it, and brings forth hope. "Yeah, we all could use a little mercy now…” Mary Gauthier

SAMPLE SONG

Over the past 25 years, Mary Gauthier has become one of the most respected songwriters in American roots music, known for songs that face life directly and without compromise. “I’m the kind of songwriter who writes what I see in the world right now,” she says.

Her eleventh album, Dark Enough to See the Stars, was her first collection of entirely new original songs in more than eight years. Her work reflects both loss and renewal. Written in the wake of personal and collective upheaval, Dark Enough to See the Stars holds grief and gratitude in the same frame, tracing the difficult work of moving forward. It followed Rifles & Rosary Beads, her Grammy-nominated collaboration with wounded Iraq war veterans. In 2021, she published Saved by a Song: The Art and Healing Power of Songwriting, a reflection on how songwriting helps make sense of difficult experiences.

Gauthier’s songs have been recorded by artists including Dolly Parton, Jimmy Buffett, Tim McGraw, and Kathy Mattea, and have appeared in film and television, most recently on HBO’s Yellowstone.

Brandi Carlile has said, “Mary’s songwriting speaks to the tender aspects of our humanness,” while the Associated Press calls her “one of the best songwriters of her generation.”

﻿Join Mary Gauthier for a special evening celebrating the 20th anniversary of her landmark album Mercy Now. The show will honor the songs and stories from this beloved record while also featuring music spanning Mary’s extraordinary career.

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

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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The Gibson Brothers
2026-09-06 16:00 - 18:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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There’s a reason Ricky Skaggs pulled Eric and Leigh Gibson off the stage at the Ryman two decades ago to offer to produce their debut, and why producers like Dan Auerbach, David Ferguson, and Jerry Douglas have all chosen to work with them. The Gibson Brothers are the real deal: exceptional musicians, natural collaborators, and deeply compelling songwriters.

With a résumé that includes nearly every major bluegrass award, albums on premier Americana labels like Sugar Hill and Rounder, and songs recorded by legends such as Del McCoury, they’ve earned lasting respect across the roots music world.

Their latest album, Darkest Hour, produced by Jerry Douglas, captures the full range of their sound, from high-energy bluegrass to what Auerbach once called “country soul.” Built from both new material and songs written over decades, the record reflects a lifetime of writing, refining, and living inside the music.

Raised on a dairy farm in northern New York, Eric and Leigh bring a grounded perspective to their songwriting with stories shaped by rural life, long tours, and a deep commitment to family. Onstage, that translates into something immediate and engaging: rich harmonies, easy humor, and a connection that only comes from years of making music together.

From standout collaborations, like Leigh’s luminous duet with Alison Krauss, to their own unmistakable vocal blend, they take the best of traditional bluegrass and deliver it with clarity, heart, and unmistakable chemistry.

SAMPLE SONG

Join us for an evening with two of the most respected voices in bluegrass and Americana—live on the Caffè Lena stage.

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

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

Similar Events

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Aug 26 • 7 PM

The Gibson Brothers
2026-09-06 19:00 - 21:00
Folk Other Storytelling

Share:

There’s a reason Ricky Skaggs pulled Eric and Leigh Gibson off the stage at the Ryman two decades ago to offer to produce their debut, and why producers like Dan Auerbach, David Ferguson, and Jerry Douglas have all chosen to work with them. The Gibson Brothers are the real deal: exceptional musicians, natural collaborators, and deeply compelling songwriters.

With a résumé that includes nearly every major bluegrass award, albums on premier Americana labels like Sugar Hill and Rounder, and songs recorded by legends such as Del McCoury, they’ve earned lasting respect across the roots music world.

Their latest album, Darkest Hour, produced by Jerry Douglas, captures the full range of their sound, from high-energy bluegrass to what Auerbach once called “country soul.” Built from both new material and songs written over decades, the record reflects a lifetime of writing, refining, and living inside the music.

Raised on a dairy farm in northern New York, Eric and Leigh bring a grounded perspective to their songwriting with stories shaped by rural life, long tours, and a deep commitment to family. Onstage, that translates into something immediate and engaging: rich harmonies, easy humor, and a connection that only comes from years of making music together.

From standout collaborations, like Leigh’s luminous duet with Alison Krauss, to their own unmistakable vocal blend, they take the best of traditional bluegrass and deliver it with clarity, heart, and unmistakable chemistry.

SAMPLE SONG

Join us for an evening with two of the most respected voices in bluegrass and Americana—live on the Caffè Lena stage.

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

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis

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event

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

Closed
2026-09-07 00:00 - 02:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Aug 26 • 7 PM

JAZZ at Caffe Lena: The Chuck Lamb Trio with Special Guest Troy Roberts
2026-09-08 19:00 - 21:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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

This September, the Chuck Lamb Trio welcomes three-time GRAMMY-nominated saxophonist Troy Roberts.

Originally from Australia and now based in New York City, Roberts has earned an international reputation for his expressive playing, remarkable versatility, and distinctive sound. A sought-after collaborator, he has performed and recorded with artists including Joey DeFrancesco, Van Morrison, Kurt Elling, Veronica Swift, Jeff "Tain" Watts, and the Orrin Evans Captain Black Big Band.

As a bandleader, Roberts has released sixteen acclaimed albums, including his latest, Green Lights, featuring John Patitucci, Paul Bollenback, and Jimmy Macbride. His music blends lyrical melodies, adventurous improvisation, and deep roots in the jazz tradition.

Chuck Lamb, pianist with the renowned Brubeck Brothers Quartet since 2002, is celebrated for his passionate, expressive style and dynamic range. A prolific composer whose work spans jazz, fusion, classical, and world music, Lamb moves effortlessly from lyrical elegance to explosive improvisation. Chuck just released his album After Hours on Phila Street, featuring Chuck’s original acoustic jazz fusion compositions, inspired by some of his most personal relationships and joyful moments.

Founded with the vision and support of the late GRAMMY® and Oscar-winning producer Joel Moss, Jazz at Caffè Lena has grown into a regional destination for adventurous, forward-thinking jazz.

In the intimate setting of Caffè Lena, this collaboration promises something special: a night of fearless improvisation, deep musical conversation, and the kind of spontaneous interplay that reminds us why live jazz matters. Whether you’re steeped in the tradition or just beginning your jazz journey, this is music meant to be experienced up close.

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

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$37.96

General
$37.96

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

Movie Night: Songs From the Reel American Songbook - a Caffè Lena Fundraiser
2026-09-10 19:00 - 21:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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An evening in two parts (sets).

First – The Golden Age of Hollywood. It will feature songs from movies from the 1920's-early 1960s.

Second – Modern Cinema Americana – songs from the late 1960's-present.

The main performers are the Jillian Smith Trio featuring: Azzaam Hameed and Allen Halstead. They have added special guests drummer, Sam Zuccini, and bass player, Pete Toigo, for this performance, and have three guest performers: Chris Dollard, Jeanne O'Connor, and Jeannine Oderkirk.

The evening was conceived by John Griffith, of the popular Bar People website and musician and active arts community member Judy LaPook. The show will be hosted by Jillian Smith.

Smith is a jazz and blues vocalist based in Saratoga Springs, who has delighted audiences throughout the Capital Region and Central New York for more than 15 years. Known for her warm, smoky voice and expressive style, she has performed at premier venues including Turning Stone Resort Casino, the Stanley Theatre in Utica, the Capitol Theatre in Rome, and the Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival in Syracuse, among many others.

A graduate of the Ithaca College School of Music, Jillian is a passionate advocate for music education. Beyond performing, Jillian created the original Broadway Music Lecture Series, Stories & Songs of Broadway’s Great Composers, which she presents to independent senior living communities throughout New York’s Capital Region. Combining live performance with engaging stories about Broadway’s legendary composers, lyricists, and musicals, the program offers audiences an entertaining and enriching journey through the history of American musical theater.

Whether performing with her trio or collaborating with other outstanding musicians, Jillian brings warmth, authenticity, and a love of great songs to every performance. She is delighted to present this special fundraising performance benefiting Caffè Lena.

BIOS OF PERFORMERS FOR MOVIE NIGHT

Jillian Smith Trio: Jillian has developed a close musical partnership with her trio companion’s pianist Azzaam Hameed and saxophonist Allen Halstead. Together, they have cultivated an intuitive musical rapport that has become a hallmark of their performances. While all three artists maintain active performing careers with other musicians, they continue to reunite as a trio, sharing a musical connection that audiences have come to recognize and enjoy.

AZZAAM HAMMED

Azzaam Hameed is a pianist, vocalist composer and arranger with more than 50 years of musical experience. His signature sound jazz, gospel, R&B, and Latin into a soulful uplifting musical experience. For more than 42 years, Azzaam has served as organist and pianist At Friendship Baptist Church. Throughout his career, he has provided music for a wide variety of secular and faith-based events, with a mission centered on spreading love, peace, and unity through music.

Caffè Lena audiences may know him from his performances with Garland Nelson and Friends for A Joyful Noise events.

Wildly regarded as one of the Capital Region’s most sought-after keyboardists he has performed along many talented vocalists and musicians throughout the area. His original music, Music with Your Mind in Mind, is available on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon and YouTube

ALLEN HALSTEAD

Allen Halstead is a local saxophonist with over 50 years of musical performance experience. Allen’s early years were spent playing in many types of projects which ranged from lounge trios to 10-piece rhythm bands. His musical styles include all genres of music: R&B, jazz standards, classic rock, smooth jazz, and big band tunes. He has played all types of venues from small quiet lounges to wedding parties to the large stage. His mentors include such greats as John Coltrane, Stan Getz, Gato Barbieri, David Sanborn and Grover Washington. Allen is a 1981 graduate of Florida State University with a Master of Music degree. While in college, he was able to experience playing with such well-known artists such as Stan Kenton, Ella Fitzgerald, and Lou Rawls. Allen plays tenor, alto and soprano saxophones using each horn to uniquely express what the music is trying to tell the audience.

PETE TOIGO:

Chatham, NY bassist Pete Toigo first played at Caffè Lena in 1989 with Emilio Dabul and The Babahasens. Since then, he’s performed at Lena’s with Scott Smith, Sonny & Perley, Jeanne O’Connor, String of Pearls, Pat Melita & Nat Phipps (as part of the Dance Flurry) and most recently with Mark & Jill.

SAM ZUCCHINI

Sam Zucchini is a drummer, vocalist, and educator who has worked with an assortment of artists including Jay Ungar & Molly Mason, David Bromberg, the Gibson Brothers, John Sebastian, Levon Helm, Carly Simon, Kate Taylor, Donald Fagen, Phoebe Snow, Pete Seeger, and back in the day, with the award-winning band, "the Zucchini Brothers.”

CHRIS DOLLARD

“I'm a passionate full-time performer and a standout pianist and vocalist in the vibrant Upstate New York music scene! With a dynamic history of entertaining in a wide array of venues, restaurants, clubs, and special events— my goal is to deliver a vibrant and personalized musical experience that makes each event truly unforgettable. Peace and Love!”

JEANNE O’CONNOR

Jeanne O'Connor is a versatile jazz vocalist whose warm, expressive style has taken her from legendary New York venues like the Blue Note, to concert halls and festivals around the world. Equally at home with jazz standards, the Great American Songbook, pop, Latin, and R&B, Jeanne is preparing for the 2027 release of her new album, The Sweetest Sounds.

JEANINE O

Jeanine Ouderkirk is a jazz vocalist and multi-instrumentalist hailing from Saratoga Springs, NY. Aside from performing, Jeanine joyfully spends her time as a music educator at Saint Gregory’s School in Loudonville, NY teaching PK-8th grade General Music and at Union College as a Voice Teacher in the Jazz and Pop styles. More information can be found at: www.jeaninemariemusic.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.

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
$37.96

inclusive of fees

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

Peak Jazz Series: Skylar Tang Quartet
2026-09-11 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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“Every now and then, a musician comes along who has a vision and focus that you just know will affect the world—a sense of high artistry, skill, and profound leadership. Skylar Tang is one of the ones in her generation who fits this description.”

— Sean Jones

Trumpeter and composer Skylar Tang is one of the most exciting young voices in jazz today.

Raised in California's Bay Area, Tang discovered jazz through her father's record collection, where the music of Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and Bill Evans sparked a lifelong passion. She began playing trumpet at age nine, started composing as a teenager, and quickly distinguished herself as an artist with both remarkable technical ability and an original musical voice.

Her composition Kaleidoscope earned first prize in Jazz at Lincoln Center's prestigious Essentially Ellington Student Composition & Arranging Contest, and while studying at Columbia University, she was invited by saxophone great Joshua Redman to record on his 2025 album Words Fall Short.

Now based in New York City, Tang leads a quartet of outstanding young musicians: pianist William Schwartzman, bassist John Murray, and drummer Ethan Oliver. Together they create performances that balance adventurous improvisation with lyrical melodies, thoughtful compositions, and the energetic interplay that makes live jazz so compelling. The quartet has performed throughout the United States and recently appeared at the 2026 Montreal Jazz Festival.

Already sharing stages with artists including Joshua Redman, the SFJAZZ Collective, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Sean Jones, and Rufus Reid, Skylar Tang represents a new generation of jazz musicians honoring the tradition while developing a voice entirely their own.

SAMPLE SONG

Don't miss the opportunity to hear one of jazz's rising stars in the intimate listening room of Caffè Lena.

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

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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Songwriting Club
2026-09-12 10:00 - 12:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

Bright Series: Cris Jacobs Band
2026-09-12 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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Cris Jacobs has earned a reputation as one of the most compelling voices in modern American roots music. Blending bluegrass, folk, blues, soul, and rock, his songs are deeply personal, richly crafted into a sound that’s as dynamic as it is heartfelt, and delivered by a masterful guitarist with a soulful, elastic voice.

His latest album, One of These Days, marks both an artistic breakthrough and a personal one. Produced by dobro legend Jerry Douglas and featuring members of The Infamous Stringdusters along with guests including Billy Strings, Sam Bush, Lindsay Lou, Lee Ann Womack, and the McCrary Sisters, the album finds Jacobs returning to the music that first inspired him. The result is an uplifting collection of songs rooted in the traditions of American string band music while embracing the freedom to explore beyond genre.

A gifted storyteller, Jacobs writes with remarkable honesty about resilience, family, hope, and finding purpose through life's challenges. His songs feel timeless, drawing listeners into vivid characters and unforgettable moments while remaining grounded in authenticity and heart. He is true to himself. On this latest album, Jacobs tells the stories of the locals from the Baltimore neighborhood where he grew up, like the crabpickers. “Work Song” explores the transcendent power of singing and features vocals by Lindsay Lou.

Jacobs says, “I read about crab pickers down on the eastern shore. All they did all day long was pick crabs––tedious, boring work. The conditions were awful. But one of them said, ‘No matter what, I could still sing, and that was all I needed to get through to the next moment.’”

SAMPLE SONG

On stage, Jacobs is a magnetic performer whose expressive voice and virtuosic guitar playing have earned him tours alongside artists including Steve Winwood and Sturgill Simpson, as well as praise from Rolling Stone, NPR, and Paste. Whether delivering an intimate ballad or an electrifying roots jam, he brings warmth, spontaneity, and extraordinary musicianship to every performance. He brings the Cris Jacobs Band to Caffè Lena. Live is where his songs are best heard and his artistry comes fully to life.

Join us for an evening with one of today's finest American songwriters, at once a seasoned craftsman and a restless innovator, the Cris Jacobs Band will share songs that celebrate perseverance, connection, and the enduring power of roots music.

﻿﻿The Bright Series is made possible by a generous gift from Kevin & Claudia Bright.

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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Aug 26 • 7 PM

Playwright's Jam
2026-09-13 13:30 - 16:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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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?

We are off in August, then back September 13th and on the 2nd Sunday monthly from then on!

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

The Second 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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

Momentum Series: The Gothard Sisters
2026-09-13 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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“Music both fresh as sunrise and yet drenched in tradition” – Folk Words Review

The Gothard Sisters, Greta, Willow and Solana, are a trio of multi-instrumentalists, singers and songwriters who create Celtic-influenced American folk music that resonates with listeners worldwide. Raised in the Pacific Northwest, USA, they studied classical music while exploring folk traditions and imaginative play, shaping a sound that blends Celtic, folk, classical, world and new-age influences. Their performances feature violin, guitar, mandolin, bodhran, djembe, whistle and close sibling harmonies, earning praise as “vivid, inspirational and captivating.”

The Gothard Sisters have amassed 70M global streams across platforms; 13M views on YouTube; played over 2,000 shows in four countries and 48 states; reached #1 on iTunes World Music Charts; won “Best New Irish Artist” (Irish Music Awards) and captured “Album of the Year” at the Celtic Radio Awards.

SAMPLE SONG

“Blending Celtic, folk, world, classical and new age musical influences, the Gothard Sisters bring songs to life with violin, acoustic guitar, mandolin, bodhran, djembe, whistle and vocal harmonies, creating music that is “vivid, inspirational and captivating.”

— Tim Carroll, Folk Words Review 2018

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

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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Aug 26 • 7 PM

Open Mic
2026-09-14 19:00 - 21:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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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
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

An Evening with John Craigie
2026-09-15 18:00 - 20:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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For more than a decade, John Craigie has built a following the old-fashioned way, by touring steadily, writing strong songs, and connecting with audiences one room at a time.

His shows move easily between storytelling and song, with a style that feels conversational without ever losing its musical focus. The humor is dry, the observations are sharp, and the songs carry more weight the longer you sit with them.

Craigie’s new album, I Swam Here (2026), was recorded in part in New Orleans with a group of handpicked musicians, and in Oregon with longtime collaborators. The result reflects both places, with looser, groove-driven arrangements alongside quieter, more reflective songs.

SAMPLE SONG

OFFICIAL AUDIO OF JOHN’S NEW ALBUM

Following Pagan Church, his chart-topping collaboration with TK & The Holy Know-Nothings, this new work continues to expand his sound while staying rooted in what he does best: clear songwriting and a strong sense of voice.

On stage, Craigie has become known for shows that feel personal and unhurried, shaped as much by the room as by the setlist. He’s toured widely across the U.S., Europe, and Australia, appearing at festivals including Newport Folk Festival, Pickathon, and High Sierra, and sharing stages with artists like Gregory Alan Isakov, Jack Johnson, and Sierra Hull.

At Caffè Lena, this is the kind of night where the stories land, the songs open up, and the room leans in.

﻿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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Aug 4 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

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Multi-act Program Open Mic Poetry

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Folk Other Storytelling

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Aug 26 • 7 PM

An Evening with John Craigie
2026-09-15 20:30 - 22:30
Folk Other Storytelling

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For more than a decade, John Craigie has built a following the old-fashioned way, by touring steadily, writing strong songs, and connecting with audiences one room at a time.

His shows move easily between storytelling and song, with a style that feels conversational without ever losing its musical focus. The humor is dry, the observations are sharp, and the songs carry more weight the longer you sit with them.

Craigie’s new album, I Swam Here (2026), was recorded in part in New Orleans with a group of handpicked musicians, and in Oregon with longtime collaborators. The result reflects both places, with looser, groove-driven arrangements alongside quieter, more reflective songs.

SAMPLE SONG

OFFICIAL AUDIO OF JOHN’S NEW ALBUM

Following Pagan Church, his chart-topping collaboration with TK & The Holy Know-Nothings, this new work continues to expand his sound while staying rooted in what he does best: clear songwriting and a strong sense of voice.

On stage, Craigie has become known for shows that feel personal and unhurried, shaped as much by the room as by the setlist. He’s toured widely across the U.S., Europe, and Australia, appearing at festivals including Newport Folk Festival, Pickathon, and High Sierra, and sharing stages with artists like Gregory Alan Isakov, Jack Johnson, and Sierra Hull.

At Caffè Lena, this is the kind of night where the stories land, the songs open up, and the room leans in.

﻿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
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

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Aug 4 • 7 PM

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

Bluegrass Jam
2026-09-16 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

Similar Events

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Aug 26 • 7 PM

School of Music Slow Jam
2026-09-17 13:00 - 15:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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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
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

Sober Salon
2026-09-17 19:00 - 21:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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This quarterly event gives people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction the opportunity to share their creative work in a happy, drug-and-alcohol-free setting with the support of Caffe Lena's professional sound, lights and stage. Sober Salon is specifically for people in recovery. It welcomes any and all art, crafts, and performances. Bring a sweater you knitted, a painting, a magic trick, a comedy routine, and certainly feel welcome to bring music and poetry! Truly, any artistic work is welcome. Art helps all of us express difficult emotions, and sharing it on stage helps us build trust in others. We hope that Sober Salon will help you move forward in your recovery and connect with a new, healthy circle of friends.

Things to Know:

Doors will open at 6:30PM and sign up will be on a first come first serve basis.
Presentations will be five minutes max.
The kitchen will be open for service.
We have a piano and a variety of instruments, including guitars you can use.
We will not offer a screen for displaying photos, but we will enable people to play backing tracks to sing with.

We can't wait to welcome you!

Admission is free thanks to the support of the Victor and Helen Geisel Foundation.

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Singing with Girl Blue
2026-09-18 14:00 - 15:30
Folk Other Storytelling

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Singing with Girl Blue

Fridays Sept 18 – Oct 9

2 pm – 3 pm

$120

Spend four weeks with Girl Blue learning how to become more connected, comfortable, and confident in your relationship with your singing voice. Enjoy meditating, breathing, learning and singing with others as our sessions culminate in a group recording of a beautiful original song by the great Dan Berggren. A wonderful and safe place to get into your body and find a deeper connection to your own voice.

Arielle Woodul (Girl Blue) is a local singer and songwriter who has been performing around the area and throughout the country for years. She has been the recipient of nine Thomas Edison Music Awards, and has had her songs placed in national and international commercials and television shows. She is also a vocalist who has been trained in opera and classical singing as well as pop and jazz. She has taught many students over the years and is certified in Vocal Health First Aid.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

Member
$37.96

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$37.96

inclusive of fees

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Sep 1 • 7 PM

Slambovian Circus of Dreams Unplugged
2026-09-18 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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Caffè Lena presents "The Slambovian Circus of Dreams – Unplugged" in a rare trio performance by founding members of the band. Take a peek behind the "Slambovian Curtain" and experience the creative engine behind the band in this intimate performance.

The Slambovians' connection with audiences taps into a greater human-ness. Charismatic frontman, Joziah presides center-ring with vocals "Soothing and bewitching as a snake oil tonic", joined onstage by founding bandmates Tink (accordion, cello, mandolin, flute) and the guitar-slinging skills of Sharkey McEwen, creating a show that constantly evolves.

Exploring the depths of Americana one trippy tune at a time, elements of Dylan, Bowie, Incredible String Band, Syd Barrett and The Waterboys flavor the musical mix. (Waterboys co- founder Anthony Thistlethwaite is featured on A Very Unusual Head). Woodstock-tinged psychedelia, a hint of southern rock and solid songwriting elevates this version of Americana to new Heights.

SAMPLE SONG

Fans of the band include: Garth Hudson (The Band), Dar Williams, Anthony Thistlethwaite (The Waterboys), Gary Burke (Bob Dylan, Joe Jackson), Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull.)

“They take the stage by storm!” – NY Times

“A breath of fresh air in a sometimes stagnant world – especially as a live act – with varied eclectic influences and great musicianship. Plus moustaches, hats and stage presence gild their Interesting and thought- provoking lyrics for the curious adult mind.” – Ian Anderson, Jethro Tull

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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Capital Region Blues Network Solo-Duo Competition
2026-09-19 13:00 - 15:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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The road to Memphis begins at Caffè Lena!

Some of the Capital Region's finest blues musicians will compete for the opportunity to represent our region at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee, in January 2027. Presented by the Capital Region Blues Network, an affiliate of The Blues Foundation, this showcase is part of one of the most respected competitions in blues music.

Performing artists will take the stage before a panel of judges, who will evaluate each act on musicianship, vocal and instrumental talent, originality, and stage presence. The winning solo or duo act will earn the honor of representing the Capital Region on the international stage, joining musicians from blues societies across the United States and around the world.

For audiences, it's a rare opportunity to experience an afternoon of outstanding live blues while cheering on local artists as they compete for a chance to perform in the birthplace of the blues.

The competing solo and duo performers will be announced prior to the event.

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
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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The Clements Brothers
2026-09-19 20:00 - 22:00
Multi-act Program Open Mic Other Storytelling

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“Pitch perfect sibling harmonies and gossamer sounds.” (Americana UK)

Identical twins George and Charles Clements first played Lena's stage with the hugely popular Lonely Heartstring Band. Their breakout 2023 duo album, Dandelion Breeze, "staked its claim as one of the year’s best debuts." (Folk Radio UK) With roots, rock, bluegrass, jazz, and classical influences, George (on guitar) and Charles (on bass) make groovy, serene music that "unassumingly and softly seeps into your soul." They are joined by drummer Mike Harmon for a show of seamless vocal harmonies, instrumental virtuosity, and a genuine love of song.

SAMPLE SONG

“The Clements Brothers have woven a tapestry of folk and Americana that tugs at the heartstrings and soothes the soul. Dandelion Breeze is a triumph for The Clements Brothers, a testament to their growth as artists and storytellers. This album is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates soul-stirring folk music that lingers in the heart and mind. With its compelling narratives and captivating melodies, it’s an album that will undoubtedly stand the test of time. – Jason Felton, Record Dept.

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

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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View All

Caffè Lena

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Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

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Chris Smither
2026-09-20 15:00 - 17:00
Folk Other Storytelling

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"His finger-picked guitar lines are sleek, unhurried and insistent. And then there's the voice–equal parts gravel and molasses." – NPR

This stark, elemental sage always has a twinkle in his eye, a light touch at your elbow as he guides you along. Accompanying himself with masterful finger-picking and amplified foot percussion, his extraordinary lyrics are packed with well-developed story lines and little punches that land on your heart.

After six decades of sharpening his knife as a songwriter, Smither can at this point open damn near anything with a flick of his wrist. Politics, consciousness, renewal, family, vulnerability, surrender . . . Smither has sat with these topics like so many Zen koans for so long that every line is a pearl. His style is utterly confident and unafraid, filled with humility, humor, a knowledge of what inevitably lies ahead, yet refusing to succumb to darkness.​

In the latest news, his acting debut was in, "The Singers," which just won the Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film. You can stream it on Netflix.

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
$37.96

General
$37.96

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Barbara Chepaitis

Multi-act Program Open Mic Storytelling

event

Aug 4 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Folk Heritage Series: Robin & Linda Williams/ Pre-Show Conversation w/ Janis Ian

American Roots Folk

event

Aug 9 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Johanna Martin

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event

Sep 1 • 7 PM
