Caffè Lena

School of Music Slow Jam
2025-05-22 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Folk Instructional Workshop

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All are Welcome! WE LOVE TO MEET NEW PICKERS, AND WE LOVE PUTTING ON A GOOD SHOW FOR LISTENERS!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
$95.00

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2025-05-22 09:00 - 12:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Guitar Workshop

Level 1 and 2

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

This class will focus on learning basic skills in order to play songs alone or with other players. Each week we will focus on learning specific skills that players can build on to gain confidence while playing. We will also work on playing different styles of music and transposing pieces into various keys. The goal is to provide players information and skills so they are comfortable in various musical environments.

Topics Include:

Open position chords and how they are related to each other

Moving from chord to chord smoothly and in time

Rhythm and strumming techniques

Single note play: Pentatonic scale, lead-ins and fills

Movable chord shapes

Learning new songs

Playing and performing with other musicians

Bruce Thompson teaches guitar workshops and private lessons at the Caffe. Bruce started playing music in elementary school, first on violin and later on guitar and dobro. Influenced by acoustic folk and bluegrass and a love for improvisation, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Composition at the Berklee College of Music and played various music styles in the Boston area for ten years. After moving to Saratoga County, NY he raised a family and made music at community, family, and school events. He currently plays in the band Uken Brew and is a fixture in the capital district bluegrass community.

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FREE

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Bluegrass Jam
2025-05-21 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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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!!

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10 Week Spring After School Folk Ensembles
2025-05-21 14:30 - 17:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Through our after school program, children aged 7 – 14 can study fiddle, guitar, ukulele, banjo, tin whistle, mandolin, bass, percussion and more. Each session consists of 10 weekly 45 minute lessons. Teachers Oona Grady and James Gascoyne will be leading the students in an ensemble format. Ensemble instills the camaraderie that is at the center of the Folk tradition. Ensemble encourages learning to hear and listen musically, and enables students to experience the interdependence of each note and strum within the group.

Classes start 2:45pm, 3:40pm and 4:25pm.

#youthclass

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Folk Club Kids
2025-05-21 10:30 - 11:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Folk Club Kids: Stories, Songs, and Sing-a-longs

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

https://www.caffelena.org/folk-club-kids/

Stream live and free on Facebook and Youtube!

Join Dan Berggren and Drank the Gold’s Oona Grady and James Gascoyne for Folk Club Kids: a free weekly interactive concert series for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children are treated to 30 minutes of live music in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Inspire a love of music, community, and togetherness each week, learn, play, make friends and have fun!

This program is made possible by the generous support of Kevin & Claudia Bright.

#youthclass

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Rochmon Record Club Listening Party : R.E.M. "Document"
2025-05-20 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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On Tuesday, May 20, Rochmon Record Club will converge at Caffe’ Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, to listen to, and learn about R.E.M.’s 5th album “Document”. Doors open at 6:30, and the show begins at 7 pm with a live audio & video presentation by Chuck Vosganian aka “Rochmon”.

Every album R.E.M. released pushed this band of college kids one step further. Recorded during the spring of 1987 in the final 2 years of the Reagan Presidency, lead singer and lyricist Michael Stipe was on a mission and had something to say. The band mixed a harder rock sound with their acoustic sentiments and nails us with classic R.E.M. songs, “Finest Worksong”, “King of Birds”, ‘Exhuming McCarthy”, “The One I Love”, “It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” and 6 more. As always Rochmon will have some surprises in store! For Rochmaniacs at a distance, Rochmon Record Club will also be streaming live on Caffe’ Lena TV. Tickets at caffelena.org

A Rochmon Record Club Listening Party is meant to inform and deepen our understanding of the history of the individual performers, songs, and stories that went into the making of this classic album. By listening together, we hear the music again for the first time. Rochmon Record Club takes place on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at Caffe’ Lena in Saratoga Springs (caffelena.org).

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

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Open Mic
2025-05-19 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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OPEN MIC NIGHT
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.
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.
Full table service (see menu). 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: Reese @caffelena.org

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Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2025-05-19 13:00 - 14:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – The purpose of this is 4 week, in person, class is for everyone to improve their mandolin skills. Each week we will spend time on right and left hand techniques, learn some new tunes and play Mandolin Ensemble pieces. This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 12 students. The class will run from 1:00 till 2:30 on May 5, 12, 19 and June 2.

Alan Epstein has been playing mandolin for the past 54 years and has been teaching others to play mandolin for 30 years. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pa, he has lived in the Capital District since 2008 and is currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. In 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra. and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012.

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Bluegrass Duets with Alan Epstein and Bruce Thompson
2025-05-19 10:00 - 12:30
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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The purpose of this class is to allow acoustic musicians to work on Bluegrass Duet repertoire with a musical partner. Early groups such as the Blue Sky Boys, the Monroe Brothers, the Louvin Brothers, and the Delmore Brothers helped develop the roots of the sound that we know as bluegrass. Each week we will listen to recorded examples of these and other duet and bluegrass artists and will work on singing and playing some of their best known songs.

This class is NOT intended for beginning musicians looking to learn the basics of their instruments. Rather, it is aimed at those who can play their acoustic instrument, (guitar, banjo, bass, fiddle, mandolin, dobro) and are interested in exploring the music's roots to help them fine tune their sound with a duet partner.

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Online School of Music: Gretchen Peters Songwriting Intensive
2025-05-18 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-05-11 14:00 - 16:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters

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

Part One: Sundays April 27 – May 18, 2025

Part Two: Sundays June 8, 15, 22, 29, 2025

On ZOOM 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PT

( the two week break between is time for implementing what you learned in preparation for part two)

Each class will run approximately 2 hours. All sessions are recorded and will be made available for review within 48 hours.

One of the oldest phrases in any language is ‘tell me a story.’ Songwriting is storytelling, and telling your story in a compelling way is all about authenticity and detail. It’s about what you say, and what you don’t say. It’s about the truth, but not necessarily the facts.

In this workshop, we’ll explore the process of songwriting—the art and the craft, and the delicate balance between the two. We’ll learn how to keep a sense of creative play and when (and how) to welcome your inner critic into the room. We’ll find ways to work through “writer’s block.” We’ll learn that only through the specific do you achieve the universal—and that’s the holy grail in songwriting and all writing. We write to find out who we are, and in the process we find out we are not alone. – Gretchen

Class Description

This 2 month intensive workshop with Gretchen will be divided into two parts.

In Part One, we’ll focus on:

Writing authentically: how to build the back story for your characters
Using detail and imagery in your lyrics
Using your subconscious as your compass
How to keep your sense of creative play alive and when to “invite the editor” into the writing room
Finding and fine-tuning your melody and chords
Structure: song forms and rhyme schemes

In Part Two, you will bring your songs to play for Gretchen and the class each week, and we’ll use these feedback sessions as “teachable moments” for the whole class. This is where a lot of the lessons of the previous four weeks really sink in – seeing the concepts we’ve talked about actually put into practice. You will “graduate” with many more tools for your songwriting toolkit, including:

Focusing your song’s POV – thinking of songs filmically
How to access your subconscious during the writing process
How verse order can change everything
Why it’s better to let the song tell you “what it’s about”
How to edit your song, and what to look out for in the editing process
What to do when you’re stuck
Songwriting prompts
The care and feeding of your creative self

Bring to our first class

Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes

An open heart and mind

How to prepare:

In addition, please do Morning Pages for at least one week leading up to the class. Click here for a description of Morning Pages. It is ESSENTIAL that you do this exercise first thing in the morning – before coffee, before breakfast, before anything. Do not edit, cross out, analyze or otherwise “judge” your three pages – don’t think, just write. This is meant to be stream of consciousness writing – it doesn’t need to have form, rhyme, or shape. You will not be required to show your Morning Pages to the class; it’s for your eyes only

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FREE

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Sing in the Streets - UPDATED SCHEDULE - Adjusted for Rain!
2025-05-18 12:00 - 16:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Sing in the Streets – Caffè Lena’s Free Neighborhood Music Festival

Sunday, May 18, 2025 | 12:00–4:00 PM | Downtown Saratoga Springs

Free & Family-Friendly | Updated Rain Schedule!

Join us for Sing in the Streets, Caffè Lena’s beloved outdoor music festival – moved indoors due to rain – celebrating 65 years of live music, community, and connection!

This free, family-friendly event fills downtown Saratoga Springs with 15 acts across 7 indoor stages, featuring folk, blues, jazz, Americana, soul, and kids’ music. It’s a joyful afternoon of discovery, with performances in and surrounding Caffè Lena’s historic home on Phila Street.

Live Music Inside All Afternoon – Featuring nationally touring artists, local favorites, and emerging voices

Family Stage – Kids' performers, student musicians, and interactive fun

Celebrating 65 Years – Honoring the legacy of America’s longest-running folk venue

Due to Rain – Indoor locations are posted below!

Support the Music – Donations welcome at the event to help fund Caffè Lena’s year-round mission

What to Bring – We encourage you to bring re-usable water bottles.

Whether you're a longtime Lena fan or simply strolling by, this is your invitation to celebrate with us!

Sunday, May 18 | Noon to 4:00 PM

Free and open to all

UPDATED RAIN SCHEDULE!!

ADIRONDACK TRUST MAIN STAGE (Phila Main Stage)

1 – 1:50 PM – Mercer Patterson Quartet

1:50 – 1:55 PM – Presenting Sponsor Address

3:00 – 3:10 PM – Mayor's Hello

3:10 – 4:00 PM – Ellen Pieroni Encyclopedia of Soul

JEM INC. STAGE (PUTNAM PLACE INSIDE)

12:20 – 1:10 PM – Cold Chocolate

1:40 – 2:30 PM – Catfish in the Sky

3:00 – 3:40 PM – Emily Barnes

TEN EYCK STAGE (CAFFÈ LENA INSIDE)

12:50 – 1:40 PM – HEARD

2:10 – 3:00 PM – Golfstrom

3:20 – 4:00 PM – Jacob Shipley

HIGH PEAKS CANNA STAGE (Phila Side Stage)

12:00 – 12:50 PM – Carling & Will

2:00 – 2:50 PM – Sara Milonovich & Greg Anderson

LYRICAL BALLAD STAGE

12:00 – 12:50 PM – ALL PERFORMERS MOVED TO OTHER STAGES

1:10 – 2:00 PM – ALL PERFORMERS MOVED TO OTHER STAGES

ALLERDICE STAGE (G Willikers)

12:15 – 12:45 PM – Volunteers of America

1:15 – 1:45 PM – The Rolling Pebbles

2:15 – 2:45 PM – Adirondack Song Dogs

3:15 – 4:00 PM – Mr. Moose & Friends

ERIC GORDON LLC STAGE (Impressions)

12:00 – 4:00 PM – Guitaro5000

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Bettye LaVette
2025-05-17 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Experience the unparalleled talent of Bettye LaVette, one of the greatest voices in American soul and blues, live at Caffè Lena. With a career spanning over 60 years, LaVette is a 7-time Grammy nominee, Blues Hall of Fame inductee, and R&B Pioneer Award winner, renowned for her ability to transform songs into deeply personal and moving performances.

From her breakout single “My Man – He’s a Lovin’ Man” at just 16 years old, to her acclaimed Broadway run in "Bubbling Brown Sugar", to her powerful reinterpretations of classic songs, Bettye has consistently pushed boundaries, making every song uniquely her own.

Her latest album, LaVette!, produced by Steve Jordan, features songs by Randall Bramblett, whom she calls “the best writer I have heard in the last 30 years.” Jordan himself describes Bettye as a combination of Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, and Miles Davis, praising her ability to turn any song into a soul-searing, unforgettable moment.

At 78 years old, Bettye remains one of the last artists who recorded during the birth of soul music in the 1960s—and she’s still creating vital, powerful recordings today.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see a living legend in an intimate performance. Secure your seat now for a night of soul, blues, and raw emotion with Bettye LaVette.

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

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Intro to Fingerstyle Guitar with Lyle Brewer
2025-05-17 13:00 - 15:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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This class will cover the basics of solo Fingerstyle guitar. We will work through pieces such as “Freight Train” and “You Are My Sunshine” as well as several of my original songs. Whether you are an experienced solo guitarist or brand new to the style this clinic will help you refine your technique, sound and harmonic understanding.

Lyle Brewer is a guitarist and songwriter from Massachusetts. He has released several instrumental guitar albums and has performed all over the country with such artists as Neighbor, Lori McKenna and Ryan Montbleau. For the last decade Brewer has been a professor of guitar at The Berklee College of Music in Boston. He has released 5 transcription books and maintains a hearty teaching schedule through his Patreon site. The night will feature Brewer's original music from his albums Juno, Get It Together and Hold On.

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Don Armstrong & The Wiskeypalians
2025-05-16 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Caffè Lena favorite Don Armstrong first attended a show at the legendary venue 62 years ago at age 15. Under the watchful eye of Lena Spencer, he learned through the graces of the performers passing through: Paul Clayton, Dave Van Ronk, Rev. Gary Davis, Bob Dylan, Hedy West, John Herald, Gil Robbins, Ian & Sylvia, Utah Phillips. Since then, it’s become a home away from home.

This will be Don’s 53rd appearance at Caffe Lena, and he is bringing his band, Don Armstrong & The Whiskeypalians to celebrate the Caffe’s 65th Anniversary. Playing guitar & 5-string banjo, Armstrong has been hailed as “a folk treasure” (Daily Times) and “a consummate songwriter” (Arizona Daily Star). His songs have been recorded by artists from coast-to-coast and have been sung around the world. For 42 years he was part of the duo Don & Victoria Armstrong, until Victoria’s passing in 2014. They had 10 records to their credit, all receiving worldwide acclaim.

Joining Don will be Liz Cerepanya, vocals; Peter Dalton Ronstadt, guitar & Pennsylvania Stomp Box; and Michael Gilbert Ronstadt, vocals and cello.

Don recently recorded a record for the Ronstadt Record Company, produced by Peter, featuring Liz & Michael as well.

A review of their appearance at this year’s Tucson Folk Festival cited a “wonderful and robust performance.”

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week of access with your live stream ticket.

﻿

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Singing Through the Hard Times: A 90th Birthday Celebration for Utah Phillips
2025-05-15 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Join us at Caffè Lena for a 65th Anniversary Folk Heritage Show and a special night honoring the 90th birthday of Bruce “Utah” Phillips—a legendary folk singer, storyteller, labor organizer, and voice for the voiceless.

Featuring performances by:

Rik Palieri (VT)

Debra Cowan (MA)

Joe Jencks (IL)

Carol Crittenden (NJ)

This evening will celebrate Utah Phillips’ incredible legacy through songs and stories from his catalog, memories and reflections on his life and activism, and music that carries his spirit forward into today’s world.

A true keeper of folk traditions, Utah Phillips’ impact extended far beyond the stage. He was a Wobbly, a peace activist, a railroad rambler, and a master storyteller who dedicated his life to the working class, the homeless, and the fight for justice. His songs, from Hallelujah, I’m a Bum to The Goodnight-Loving Trail, remain powerful anthems of labor, community, and resilience.

Whether you know his music well or are discovering it for the first time, this is a night to be inspired by the words and wisdom of a true American folk hero.

Reserve your seat now and celebrate the life, music, and legacy of Utah Phillips.

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

Bios of the Artists performing.

Rik Palieri Bio:

Rik, we call him Totem Pole. Well, it suits him. Here he comes now, strong, upright, his whole body festooned with instruments: banjo, guitar and a quadriplegic goat he claims to be Polish bagpipes. And they are! Once played, they’ll clean the wax out of your ears or make you wish you had more. Tote ‘em Pole, that’s him. Well, just part of him, the hobo part. The rest has to do with music, our music. And the road, long stretches of midnight highway, booming on to the next last lost town at the end of the world. You take all the best of who we’ve become, we Americans; our plain, honest voice, our wandering soul, the deep, true poetry of all our places, trust, honor, hard-working hands and hearts at peace. Take all of these, stitch them together with our people’s common music, the ring of the banjo and happy feet stomping away the darkness – and somewhere in the middle of all this you’ll find Rik. He has more time and miles on him than a prospector’s mule. But he has turned up the gold. It shines from a thousand stages where, night after night he gives back to some of us what he’s learned from the rest of us. Always giving, only taking what balances out. Rik tells it and lives it and sings it and it all comes out, like the old fiddler said, “finer’ than snuff and it ain’t half as dusty”. – Utah Phillips April, 2003

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Debra Cowan Bio:

“Stunning” is the word often used to describe Debra Cowan's vocals. She performs unaccompanied or with guitar, interpreting a wide range of traditional and contemporary songs. She is a full-time performer who bridges the old and new with a refreshing stage presence and has released six recordings, all having earned praise on both sides of the Atlantic. She tours in the United Kingdom and in North America and has often been seen on stage with her good friend, singer and musician John Roberts. Debra is a proud member of American Federation of Musicians Local 1000 and endorses Harvey Leach guitars.

SAMPLE SONG

Joe Jencks Bio:

Joe Jencks sings with a lyric baritone voice that has the edgy richness of a good sea-salt caramel. A 25-year veteran of the international Folk circuit, award-winning songwriter and celebrated vocalist based in the Chicago area, Joe delivers engaged musical narratives filled with heart, soul, groove, and grit. Known for his music of social consciousness, Jencks has penned several #1 Folksongs including the ever-relevant Lady of The Harbor. Jencks’ CD Poets, Philosophers, Workers, and Wanderers earned #1 Artist, #1 Album, and #1 Song on the Folk Alliance/Folk DJ Chart and spent several weeks at #1 on the SIRIUS XM Americana Chart. Joe was musical director for an annual Veteran's retreat: Warriors Heart to Art, writing songs with military veterans. Joe is also a recording artist, producer, and Folk DJ (My Highway Home.~ on Folk Music Notebook). A dual US-Irish citizen, Jencks has also served as a Cultural Ambassador with the U.S. State Department. From Carnegie Hall to coffeehouses across North America, Joe has become a fan favorite.

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Carol Crittenden Bio:

NJ/NY Metro-area based singer songwriter, Carol Crittenden, has been known to "light up the stage" with her sweet soaring vocals and thoughtful, melodic tunes. She weaves her personal perspective into her work, whether in her emotionally intimate or acclaimed social-justice-minded songs. She has recorded and toured as lead singer of Four Celtic Voices, with a #1 CD on the Billboard World Music Chart. Her new album, "Glimmer," was released in 2025 and charted at #6 on the FAI Folk Chart in its first month.

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School of Music Slow Jam
2025-05-15 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-05-08 13:00 - 15:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

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FREE

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2025-05-15 09:00 - 12:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Guitar Workshop

Level 1 and 2

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

This class will focus on learning basic skills in order to play songs alone or with other players. Each week we will focus on learning specific skills that players can build on to gain confidence while playing. We will also work on playing different styles of music and transposing pieces into various keys. The goal is to provide players information and skills so they are comfortable in various musical environments.

Topics Include:

Open position chords and how they are related to each other

Moving from chord to chord smoothly and in time

Rhythm and strumming techniques

Single note play: Pentatonic scale, lead-ins and fills

Movable chord shapes

Learning new songs

Playing and performing with other musicians

Bruce Thompson teaches guitar workshops and private lessons at the Caffe. Bruce started playing music in elementary school, first on violin and later on guitar and dobro. Influenced by acoustic folk and bluegrass and a love for improvisation, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Composition at the Berklee College of Music and played various music styles in the Boston area for ten years. After moving to Saratoga County, NY he raised a family and made music at community, family, and school events. He currently plays in the band Uken Brew and is a fixture in the capital district bluegrass community.

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Sep 9 • 10:30 AM

John Gorka
2025-05-14 19:30 - 21:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Join us for an extraordinary evening with John Gorka, one of the most respected voices in contemporary folk music. From his humble beginnings at the legendary Godfrey Daniels coffeehouse in Pennsylvania to international acclaim, John has spent decades crafting songs full of heart, humor, and wisdom.

With a baritone voice that’s both rich and intimate, Gorka’s music has earned him comparisons to artists like Nanci Griffith, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and Shawn Colvin—many of whom have also recorded his songs. His career took off after winning the New Folk Award at the Kerrville Folk Festival, leading to a celebrated catalog of albums on Red House Records and Windham Hill/High Street Records.

Fans know John for classics like Land of the Bottom Line, I Know, and Jack’s Crows, as well as collaborations with folk luminaries. His song Where No Monuments Stand was even featured in the documentary Every War Has Two Losers.

Whether you’ve followed his journey from the start or are discovering him for the first time, this is a rare opportunity to experience John Gorka up close in the intimate setting of Caffè Lena—the perfect venue for a storyteller of his caliber.

SAMPLE SONG

Unable to make the show in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

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FREE

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10 Week Spring After School Folk Ensembles
2025-05-14 14:30 - 17:30
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Through our after school program, children aged 7 – 14 can study fiddle, guitar, ukulele, banjo, tin whistle, mandolin, bass, percussion and more. Each session consists of 10 weekly 45 minute lessons. Teachers Oona Grady and James Gascoyne will be leading the students in an ensemble format. Ensemble instills the camaraderie that is at the center of the Folk tradition. Ensemble encourages learning to hear and listen musically, and enables students to experience the interdependence of each note and strum within the group.

Classes start 2:45pm, 3:40pm and 4:25pm.

#youthclass

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Folk Club Kids
2025-05-14 10:30 - 11:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Folk Club Kids: Stories, Songs, and Sing-a-longs

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

https://www.caffelena.org/folk-club-kids/

Stream live and free on Facebook and Youtube!

Join Dan Berggren and Drank the Gold’s Oona Grady and James Gascoyne for Folk Club Kids: a free weekly interactive concert series for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children are treated to 30 minutes of live music in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Inspire a love of music, community, and togetherness each week, learn, play, make friends and have fun!

This program is made possible by the generous support of Kevin & Claudia Bright.

#youthclass

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JAZZ at Caffè Lena : Chuck Lamb Special Guests Camille Thurman & Darrell Green
2025-05-13 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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The JAZZ at Caffe Lena series is hosted by resident composer, pianist, and jazz master Chuck Lamb, with support from music producer Joel Moss. Each month, Lamb invites a top-flight jazz artist to join his trio on stage. Lamb, a member of the Brubeck Brothers Quartet since 2002, is not only an exciting and emotive pianist but also a prolific composer of jazz, fusion, classical, and world music. Through these collaborations, the artists stretch their creative boundaries, exploring new musical landscapes and creating spontaneous, exhilarating performances.

The show for May is Chuck​ Lamb and his special guest​s, saxophonist and vocalist Camille Thurman and Darrell Green, one of today’s most sought-after jazz drummers.

Camille Thurman effortlessly pairs masterful saxophone artistry with a commanding vocal presence. A NAACP Image Award nominee and Downbeat Critics Poll Rising Star, she is reshaping the landscape of modern jazz. Thurman made history as the first woman in 30 years to tour internationally with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and her performances have captivated audiences at some of the world’s most esteemed venues, including the Library of Congress. With a sound that bridges jazz tradition and forward-thinking innovation, she honors the greats while carving out her own distinct voice. As a composer, performer, and educator, Thurman is both a force on stage and a guiding influence for the next generation of musicians.

Embodying eﬀortless technical mastery and spirit-filled rhythms deeply rooted in the modern post-bop tradition, Darrell Green developed a style retaining elements of both the gospel and classical lineage while taking listeners on a spiritual journey.

Many have compared his rhythmic sense of style, inventiveness, and feel to the likes of Elvin Jones, Tony Williams, and Art Blakey. A respected bandleader and sideman, Darrell has toured and performed in notable concert halls and music festivals

worldwide, including Jazz At Lincoln Center, The Blue Note, The Kennedy Center, Alice Tully Hall, and the Montreaux Jazz Festival.

Calille Thurman, Darrell Green and Chuck Lamb — these artists together will deliver an evening of lush standards, electrifying originals, and soul-deep improvisation—offering a rare opportunity to hear jazz at its most powerful and personal.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind collaboration on the Lena stage.

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

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Open Mic
2025-05-12 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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OPEN MIC NIGHT
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.
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.
Full table service (see menu). 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: Reese @caffelena.org

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Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2025-05-12 13:00 - 14:30
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – The purpose of this is 4 week, in person, class is for everyone to improve their mandolin skills. Each week we will spend time on right and left hand techniques, learn some new tunes and play Mandolin Ensemble pieces. This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 12 students. The class will run from 1:00 till 2:30 on May 5, 12, 19 and June 2.

Alan Epstein has been playing mandolin for the past 54 years and has been teaching others to play mandolin for 30 years. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pa, he has lived in the Capital District since 2008 and is currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. In 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra. and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012.

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Bluegrass Duets with Alan Epstein and Bruce Thompson
2025-05-12 10:00 - 12:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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The purpose of this class is to allow acoustic musicians to work on Bluegrass Duet repertoire with a musical partner. Early groups such as the Blue Sky Boys, the Monroe Brothers, the Louvin Brothers, and the Delmore Brothers helped develop the roots of the sound that we know as bluegrass. Each week we will listen to recorded examples of these and other duet and bluegrass artists and will work on singing and playing some of their best known songs.

This class is NOT intended for beginning musicians looking to learn the basics of their instruments. Rather, it is aimed at those who can play their acoustic instrument, (guitar, banjo, bass, fiddle, mandolin, dobro) and are interested in exploring the music's roots to help them fine tune their sound with a duet partner.

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Drank the Gold
2025-05-11 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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“At times, they dived into the track of the moon in the dark sea water and opened their mouths to swallow the silver. At times, they plunged into the path of the sun in the green-blue ocean and opened their mouths and drank the gold.”

— Pat O’Shea, The Hounds of the Morrigan

Rooted in Irish, old-time, and North Atlantic folk traditions, Drank The Gold brings a vibrant, heartfelt approach to traditional tunes and songs. Featuring Oona Grady (fiddle, viola, vocals) and James Gascoyne (guitar, banjo, vocals), this Upstate New York duo blends rich harmonies, driving rhythms, and fresh interpretations of centuries-old dance tunes.

Oona honed her fiddle skills in Cork, Ireland, steeped in Irish traditions before returning to Ithaca, NY, where she expanded her repertoire to include old-time and Cajun music. James, originally from Kentucky, brings a love of genre-blending and a deep appreciation for both American folk and Irish dance music. Together, their music is as authentic as it is dynamic.

Beyond the stage, Oona and James are essential members of the Caffè Lena family. They teach and mentor at the Caffè Lena School of Music, inspire young musicians through Folk Club Kids, and regularly sit in with artists on our stage, always ready to lend their talent and energy to the community. Their dedication to keeping folk traditions alive—both in performance and through education—makes them true ambassadors of the music we love.

Join us for a rare and special evening as Oona and James take center stage as Drank The Gold—sharing the music, heart, and joy that they so generously give to our community.

SAMPLE SONG

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

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House of Hamill
2025-05-10 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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From serendipitous beginnings to becoming a fixture on festival stages across the U.S., House of Hamill is a band that thrives on unexpected magic and undeniable chemistry.

What started as a chance collaboration between Rose Baldino (Burning Bridget Cleary) and Brian Buchanan (Enter the Haggis) has blossomed into a powerhouse trio with Caroline Browning on bass, delivering soaring harmonies, masterful musicianship, and electrifying energy. Their performances seamlessly blend original jigs and reels, reimagined folk ballads, and crowd-favorite covers, all wrapped in an engaging stage presence that makes every show a joyous occasion.

And, they continue to make waves in the folk music world, earning Grand Prize honors in the 2024 John Lennon Songwriting Contest for their original song Banks of the Brandywine. Their all violin cover of Sweet Child O’ Mine has captivated audiences worldwide, amassing over 16 million views and 400,000 shares on Facebook. Their latest album, Wildfire, marks their most compelling work yet, featuring dynamic songwriting, intricate arrangements, and irresistible hooks that capture the vibrant energy of their live performances.

Whether they’re ripping through a fiery set, captivating with their harmonies, or making audiences laugh with road stories, House of Hamill delivers an unforgettable live experience.

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

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The Wildwoods
2025-05-09 20:00 - 21:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Lose yourself in the rich, inspired harmonies and lush sounds of The Wildwoods—where the heart of folk meets the soul of Americana.

Step into the heart of American roots music with The Wildwoods, a dynamic folk/Americana trio hailing from Lincoln, Nebraska. Comprised of husband-and-wife duo Noah and Chloe Gose and their long-time friend Andrew Vaggalis, The Wildwoods craft an intricate sound that blends heartfelt harmonies with lush violin, warm guitar tones, and a steady bass foundation.

Their music draws inspiration from artists like Nickel Creek, Watchhouse, and Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, yet their sound remains distinctly their own—a rich tapestry of nature-inspired melodies and personal storytelling. Over the years, they’ve shared stages with Mighty Poplar, Sierra Ferrell, and Aiofe O’Donovan and performed at renowned festivals like Summerfest and FreshGrass.

With accolades including a finalist spot at the FreshGrass Music Festival Band Competition and recognition as "Best Band" by the Lincoln Journal Star, The Wildwoods are quickly solidifying their place in the modern folk landscape. Their most recent album, Foxfield Saint John (2023), showcases the band’s evolution, pushing musical boundaries while staying true to the heartfelt authenticity that defines them.

Don’t miss your chance to experience The Wildwoods live at Caffè Lena, where every note tells a story and every harmony feels like home.

Sample Song

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Price

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FREE

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Angelina Valente
2025-05-08 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Angelina Valente’s singer-songwriter/indie folk is intimate, honest, and deeply moving. With a voice that feels both delicate and powerful, she weaves songs that capture the quiet beauty of life, love, and self-discovery. Influenced by her small-town roots (she is a native of Galway, NY) and love of nature, her music blends poetic storytelling with piano and ukulele, creating a sound that is both timeless and refreshingly modern. She creates a captivating, intimate experience that draws audiences in and leaves them inspired.

In just five years, Angelina has gone from open-mic nights to selling out shows across the Capital Region. Her journey has taken her to some of the country’s most esteemed studios, including Village Studios in L.A. and Atlantic Records Studio in NYC. Her latest album, Sing (released in November 2023), earned her three major accolades: Songwriter of the Year, Album of the Year, and Artist of the Year for the New York Capital Region.

“Authentic & sincere” – Her music is deeply personal, with a true and honest voice.

Join us for a beautiful evening of storytelling, song, and heartfelt connection with Angelina Valente.

SAMPLE SONG

Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week of access with your live stream ticket.

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