"A Joyful Noise!" Gospel Dinner with Soulist Garland Nelson & Friends
2025-03-30 17:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
American Roots Singer Songwriter

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Dinner and soul-cleansing music by soulist Garland Nelson & Friends. Saratoga and the entire Capital District, will be thrilled to learn that A Joyful Noise is back every month this year! This is a soul-cleansing dinner hour of music directed by Soulist Garland Nelson. Nelson will be joined by a variety of his friends who are musicians and singers for a late afternoon of joyful noise. Songs range from traditional gospel and contemporary church music to soulful pop classics. Audience participation is downright thunderous. It's impossible to stay quiet or in your seat as Garland Nelson stirs up the Spirit! Dinner served to your table is an integral part of this cultural event and is included in your ticket price. Your plate will be heaped with traditional food from the Carribbean. Coffee and tea is included. Caffe Lena's drink and dessert menu will be available a la carte. Sample Song Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. This event is made possible by the generous support of Dottie Pepper and David Normoyle.

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Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$29.28

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$32.53

Child or Student
$16.27

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So You Want to Play Mandolin with Alan Epstein
2025-03-31 10:00 - 11:30
American Roots Folk

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This class is designed for the beginner; those folks who are interested in playing the mandolin but don't know where to start. We will cover the basics of holding, tuning and playing your first notes and chords on the mandolin, left and right hand technique and also learn to play a few songs. My goal is to get you started and provide you with the skills needed to play this great little instrument going forward. We will take things slowly, with a focus on producing clear tone, developing muscle memory in your fingers and most importantly having fun. Each week we will review all the things we’ve covered in previous classes. We will learn mostly by ear, but a few handouts will be provided. The only prerequisite is that you have a mandolin, a few picks, an extra set of mandolin strings, an electronic tuner and, most importantly, a desire to play the mandolin. Class size is limited to 10 so reserve your spot now!

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 and currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. A former contributing writer for the now defunct Mandolin Magazine, in 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012. During all this time he has made it a priority to take mandolin lessons and workshops from the top players in the world and share what he has learned when he teach others to play. Alan teaches by ear and specializes in Bluegrass and Old Time music. In Alan’s own words, “IMHO the world needs more mandolin players and I'm here to help make that happen”.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

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$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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Bluegrass Mandolin Solos with Alan Epstein
2025-03-31 11:30 - 13:00
Folk

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In this 6 week class we will learn how to create mandolin solos by ear for 12 bluegrass songs from the JAM Songbook. The JAM Songbook, created by Pete Wernick and Liam Purcell is used in the Junior Appalachian Musician’s after school roots music program that runs in various Southeastern states in the US. All registered students will receive a copy of the JAM songbook at the first class. Course Objectives At the end of this course, students will be able to: • Pick out the melody based break on a Bluegrass song by ear. • Begin to understand how to ornament a melody based break on a Bluegrass song. • Gain confidence playing in a bluegrass jam session. • Gain knowledge of the mandolin fretboard.
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 and currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. A former contributing writer for the now defunct Mandolin Magazine, in 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012. During all this time he has made it a priority to take mandolin lessons and workshops from the top players in the world and share what he has learned when he teach others to play. Alan teaches by ear and specialize in Bluegrass and Old Time music. In Alan’s own words, “IMHO the world needs more mandolin players and I'm here to help make that happen”.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 3:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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Open Mic
2025-03-31 19:00 - 21:00
Folk

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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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

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$15.18

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Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Al Ciejka
2025-04-01 19:00 - 21:00
Folk

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Al Ciejka earned his master’s degrees from Albany State and Union College. He taught junior high math for 35 years in Saratoga, where he also coached youth sport teams. Al’s storytelling journey began in his 1956 yellow Thunderbird telling tales to his grandchildren. Fridays in Saratoga with Nana and Grandpa included not only adventures (no phones allowed) but also a short story told in the car, always with a moral ending. One night when there was a shortage of tellers at Open Mic Storytelling, Jeannine Laverty said, “Al, you are telling tonight.” Now Al is a regular and integral teller at the open mic night regaling the community with historical and personal tales. Most recently, Al has coached new tellers for the Caffe Lena’s annual TrueSongs program, which showcases six comeback stories that could never have happened without the support of Capital District nonprofits.
Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

General
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Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

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Folk Club Kids
2025-04-02 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-04-09 10:30 - 11:00
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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Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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10 Week Spring After School Folk Ensembles
2025-04-02 14:30 - 17:30, 2025-04-09 14:30 - 17:30
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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Doors Open: 7:30 pm

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$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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Poetry Open Mic Featuring Daniel Nester
2025-04-02 19:00 - 21:00
Folk

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A featured poet(s) reads for 20 minutes. Featured poets are booked by host Carol Graser. Generally, our features are established, published poets and/or have made significant public contributions to the regional poetry scene.
Daniel Nester is a poet, nonfiction writer, teacher, and editor. His most recent book is Harsh Realm: My 1990s, a collection of poems. Previous books include Shader, a memoir; How to Be Inappropriate, a collection of humorous nonfiction; and The Incredible Sestina Anthology, which he edited; and the poetry collection The History of My World Tonight. His writing has appeared in New York Times, Buzzfeed, The Atlantic, American Poetry Review, Best American Poetry, Bennington Review, Court Green, and other places and has been anthologized in Best American Poetry, Now Write! Nonfiction, The Best Creative Nonfiction, and Third Rail: The Poetry of Rock and Roll. He is editor of Pine Hills Review and for 18 years was a professor of English at The College of Saint Rose.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2025-04-03 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-04-10 09:00 - 12:00
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.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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School of Music Slow Jam
2025-04-03 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-04-10 13:00 - 15:00
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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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Bright Series: Abby Posner
2025-04-03 19:00 - 21:00
Folk

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Get ready for a night of boundary-pushing, high-energy folk and roots music as Abby Posner takes the stage at Caffè Lena​. A multi-instrumentalist, award-winning songwriter, and powerhouse performer, Posner seamlessly blends folk, blues, indie, and pop, making every live show an adventure in sound and soul.
With a reputation for her fierce guitar solos, Earl Scruggs-style banjo picking, and the ability to pick up just about any instrument she touches, Abby Posner’s live performances are mesmerizing. Her energy is often compared to Chris Thile (Nickel Creek) and The Lumineers, and her music ranges from intimate, haunting folk songs to festival-ready, foot-stomping anthems.
A seasoned composer for film and TV, Posner’s music has been featured on Hulu’s Maggie, The Fosters, This American Life, Last Tango in Halifax, and more. She has performed on GLEE, Famous in Love, KCAL 9 News, and Good Day LA and has opened for Sierra Hull, Dustbowl Revival, and other iconic acts. Her song Get Loud with Ships Have Sailed won the USA Songwriter Competition Grand Prize and continues to chart on indie/alternative radio.
Whether she’s playing guitar, banjo, mandolin, or drums, looping beats live, or belting out a heartfelt ballad,​ this dynamic, genre-fluid artist is redefining modern folk music.
SAMPLE SONG
The Bright Series is made possible by a generous gift from Kevin & Claudia Bright.
Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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The Special Consensus
2025-04-04 20:00
Folk

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An opportunity to witness a milestone performance by Special Consensus as they commemorate five decades of exceptional bluegrass music.
Join us at Caffè Lena as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Special Consensus, a renowned bluegrass band that has been captivating audiences since 1975. Founded and led by banjo virtuoso Greg Cahill, recipient of the International Bluegrass Music Association's Distinguished Achievement Award and inductee into the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America's Hall of Greats, the band has consistently delivered a contemporary bluegrass sound while honoring its rich traditions.
Over the years, Special Consensus has garnered numerous accolades, including two Grammy nominations and multiple IBMA awards. Their 2018 album, Rivers and Roads, was nominated for a Grammy and earned the IBMA Album of the Year award, with the track "Squirrel Hunters" receiving the Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year. Their 2020 release, Chicago Barn Dance, features the title track that won the IBMA Song of the Year award.
The current lineup features Greg Cahill on banjo, Greg Blake on guitar and vocals, honored as the 2023 IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year, Dan Eubanks on bass, and Brian McCarty on mandolin.
Together, they create a dynamic and engaging musical experience that appeals to bluegrass enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Don't miss this opportunity to witness a milestone performance by Special Consensus as they commemorate five decades of exceptional bluegrass music.
Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.
SAMPLE SONG

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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Little Folks Series Featuring Evie Ladin & Keith Terry
2025-04-05 15:00 - 16:00
Folk

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From bells and banjos to body music, boxes, and balls, Evie Ladin & Keith Terry transform everyday objects—and even their own bodies—into instruments! Blending Appalachian step dancing, world rhythms, jazz, and found sounds, this duo creates a fun, interactive performance that will have kids and families clapping, stomping, and discovering the music all around them.
This is music you can see, dance you can hear – A blend of body percussion, folk traditions & jazz. Their performances are captivating—both entertaining & educational, perfect for kids of all ages. It's a rhythmic journey across cultures. Discover how rhythm connects people everywhere.
For over 40 years, Evie Ladin & Keith Terry have been blurring the lines between music and dance, sharing their rhythmic magic with audiences worldwide. Their performances are lively, engaging, and guaranteed to get you moving!
Join us for a joyful, hands-on musical adventure with Evie Ladin & Keith Terry!
Made possible by a generous gift from Kevin & Claudia Bright.
Can't make it in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

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Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light
2025-04-05 20:00 - 21:30
Folk

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Roots in both the bluegrass and classical worlds plus true-blue singer-songwriter folk through and through.
Fresh off their first-place win at the 2023 Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival band competition, Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light have been captivating audiences across the Northeast. With songs that are both sweet and biting, Sumner’s lyric-forward writing and intricate, winding chord progressions push far beyond traditional folk conventions. Her powerful vocals are matched by the extraordinary talents of Kat Wallace (fiddle) and Mike Siegel (upright bass), whose dynamic performances elevate the music to breathtaking heights.
Sumner’s career began on the bluegrass circuit with the genre-bending Boston group Twisted Pine, but her solo work has earned her critical acclaim. She won the Lennon Award in the folk category of the 2021 John Lennon Songwriting Contest for her song "Radium Girls (Curie Eleison)," secured a spot in the Kerrville New Folk Competition, and was recognized four consecutive years as one of WBUR/NPR’s top Massachusetts entries in the Tiny Desk Competition.
Their latest album, Heartless Things, marks a bold evolution in Sumner's sound, blending elements of chamber-folk and indie-pop with Appalachian balladry and bluesy hooks. This immersive collection showcases her top-notch narrative songwriting while pushing the boundaries of contemporary folk music. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of music that’s redefining what modern folk can be.
Sample Song
Can't make it in person? Stream the show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks access with your live stream ticket.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

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Songwriting Club with Rachel Sumner
2025-04-06 10:00 - 12:00
Folk

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Hear a seasoned songwriters perspective / process
Discuss songwriting tips and strategies
Work on a prompt
With hosts Reese Fulmer and Girl Blue

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

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$30.37

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$15.18

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Playwright's Jam
2025-04-06 13:30 - 16:00
Folk

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Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

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$27.11

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$30.37

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$15.18

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LOJOBROWN feat.Logan Richardson, Joe Sanders & Justin Brown
2025-04-06 19:00 - 21:00
Folk

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Three of the globe’s most innovative artists in contemporary jazz music—Logan Richardson, Joe Sanders, and Justin Brown—unite to form LOJOBROWN. Individually celebrated as visionaries who consistently push the boundaries of modern jazz, their collaboration promises a bold exploration of what's possible when three singular voices converge to create art.
Saxophonist Logan Richardson is internationally acclaimed for his genre-defying artistry. A conduit for emotion and awareness through his instrument, bassist Joe Sanders is noted as one of the greats of his instrument. Justin Brown, a groundbreaking drummer, is celebrated for his explosive creativity and versatility. Together, they form LOJOBROWN—where innovation meets mastery.
Currently completing their debut album at The Bridge Studio in Brooklyn, LOJOBROWN is set to premiere exclusively in select cities across the U.S. and Canada in 2025, and we are so excited to have them at Caffè Lena! Their album launch is slated for January 2026, followed by an extensive global tour. Come see them almost a year before everyone else does!
Logan Richardson SAMPLE SONG
Joe Sanders SAMPLE SONG
Justin Brown SAMPLE SONG
Can't make it in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

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So You Want to Play Mandolin with Alan Epstein
2025-04-07 10:00 - 11:30
Folk

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This class is designed for the beginner; those folks who are interested in playing the mandolin but don't know where to start. We will cover the basics of holding, tuning and playing your first notes and chords on the mandolin, left and right hand technique and also learn to play a few songs. My goal is to get you started and provide you with the skills needed to play this great little instrument going forward. We will take things slowly, with a focus on producing clear tone, developing muscle memory in your fingers and most importantly having fun. Each week we will review all the things we’ve covered in previous classes. We will learn mostly by ear, but a few handouts will be provided. The only prerequisite is that you have a mandolin, a few picks, an extra set of mandolin strings, an electronic tuner and, most importantly, a desire to play the mandolin. Class size is limited to 10 so reserve your spot now!
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 and currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. A former contributing writer for the now defunct Mandolin Magazine, in 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012. During all this time he has made it a priority to take mandolin lessons and workshops from the top players in the world and share what he has learned when he teach others to play. Alan teaches by ear and specializes in Bluegrass and Old Time music. In Alan’s own words, “IMHO the world needs more mandolin players and I'm here to help make that happen”.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

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Bluegrass Mandolin Solos with Alan Epstein
2025-04-07 11:30 - 13:00
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In this 6 week class we will learn how to create mandolin solos by ear for 12 bluegrass songs from the JAM Songbook. The JAM Songbook, created by Pete Wernick and Liam Purcell is used in the Junior Appalachian Musician’s after school roots music program that runs in various Southeastern states in the US. All registered students will receive a copy of the JAM songbook at the first class. Course Objectives At the end of this course, students will be able to: • Pick out the melody based break on a Bluegrass song by ear. • Begin to understand how to ornament a melody based break on a Bluegrass song. • Gain confidence playing in a bluegrass jam session. • Gain knowledge of the mandolin fretboard.
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 and currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. A former contributing writer for the now defunct Mandolin Magazine, in 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012. During all this time he has made it a priority to take mandolin lessons and workshops from the top players in the world and share what he has learned when he teach others to play. Alan teaches by ear and specialize in Bluegrass and Old Time music. In Alan’s own words, “IMHO the world needs more mandolin players and I'm here to help make that happen”.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Jul 25 • 8 PM

Open Mic
2025-04-07 19:00 - 21:00
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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

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Jazz at Caffè Lena : The Chuck Lamb Trio with Special Guest Wallace Roney, Jr.
2025-04-08 19:00 - 21:00
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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.
Joining Chuck Lamb as a special guest for this unforgettable night of jazz is Wallace Roney Jr., a rising force in the New York jazz scene. Born into a musical dynasty, Roney Jr. carries forward the legacy of his father, renowned trumpeter Wallace Roney Sr., and his mother, celebrated pianist Geri Allen, while forging his own distinctive voice in the genre. Inspired by jazz greats like Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, and Lee Morgan, he picked up the trumpet at just 10 years old and never looked back. A graduate of the prestigious Oberlin Conservatory of Music, Roney Jr. has already performed alongside legends such as Chick Corea, Jimmy Heath, Lenny White, and Buster Williams, proving himself as one of today’s most exciting and sought-after trumpeters.
SAMPLE SONG
Don’t miss the chance to witness this dynamic combination at Caffè Lena!
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.
﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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Skidmore Jazz Ensembles Community Concert
2025-04-09 19:00 - 21:00
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Enjoy an evening of diverse jazz styles and inspiring talent as the Skidmore Small Jazz Ensembles take the stage with their guitars, brass, reeds, keyboards, drums and vocals. They never fail to put on a truly engaging show of jazz standards and contemporary compositions.
This free community concert gives Saratogians a chance to experience the hard work going on in Skidmore’s celebrated music department.
Can't make the show in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week of access with your live stream ticket.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

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View All

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Bright Series: Hunter Root

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Jul 18 • 4 PM

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Jul 18 • 8 PM

Pat McGee and Friends
2025-04-10 19:00 - 21:00
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Pat McGee brings melodic, guitar-driven songs that blend the heart of singer-songwriter storytelling with the energy of a jam band.
Pat McGee has spent a career bringing wildly talented musicians together, crafting melodic, guitar-driven songs that blend the heart of singer-songwriter storytelling with the energy of a jam band. Since forming the Pat McGee Band in 1995, he has shared stages with The Who, James Taylor, Fleetwood Mac, Counting Crows, The Allman Brothers Band, and more, earning a devoted following along the way.
Joining him is longtime collaborator Patrick McAloon (guitar, mandolin, vocals), whose chemistry with McGee shines in soulful harmonies and dynamic performances. Together, they create a warm, organic sound, infused with classic rock influences, thoughtful lyrics, and groove-driven melodies.
Recent highlights include:

A sold-out show with John Popper playing to 2,000+ fans at Capitol One Center
A performance for 4,000+ at Wolf Trap’s Filene Center
Returning in 2025 to Train’s "Sail Across the Sun" cruise

Beyond performing, McGee is a community builder in the music world, curating celebrated festivals like Down The Hatch (NC) and Ocean State of Mind (RI), where he brings together fellow artists and fans in unforgettable settings.
Don’t miss this intimate, harmony-rich evening with Pat McGee & Friends LIVE at Caffè Lena.
Can't make the show in person? Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.
SAMPLE SONG

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Hunter Root

American Roots Folk

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Jul 12 • 7 PM

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event

Jul 18 • 4 PM

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Jul 25 • 8 PM

Peak Jazz Series : Richard Baratta Gotham City Latin Jazz Sextet
2025-04-11 20:00 - 22:00
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A multi-talented artist, Baratta’s career spans both music and film, with an impressive list of Hollywood credits, including The Wolf of Wall Street, The Irishman, Joker, and several Spider-Man films. After decades in the film industry, Baratta made a triumphant return to jazz, earning a GRAMMY nomination for his 2020 album, Music in Film: The Reel Deal, which reimagined iconic movie soundtracks in a jazz setting. His follow-ups, Music in Film: The Sequel and Off the Charts, solidified his place as a boundary-pushing bandleader and visionary musician.
Now, the drummer-bandleader returns with his new album, Looking Back—a thrilling jazz reinterpretation of classic rock and soul hits from the 1960s and '70s. Expect fresh, dynamic takes on the music of James Brown, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and Bob Dylan, all brought to life through the virtuosic energy of the Richard Baratta Gotham City Latin Jazz Sextet.
The Players are Bill O'Connell – piano, Craig Handy – saxophones, Paul Bollenback – guitar, Michael Goetz – bass, Paul Rossman – percussion, and Richard Baratta on drums.
Baratta and his Sextet blend the soul of classic rock with the improvisational fire of jazz, creating a performance that is both nostalgic and fresh, familiar yet unpredictable. Experience an electrifying night where jazz meets the legends of rock & soul—LIVE at Caffè Lena! This show is part of the Peak Jazz Series.
﻿The Peak Jazz Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph & Luann Conlon in memory of Corrine Simonds.
SAMPLE SONG
Can't make it in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Hunter Root

American Roots Folk

event

Jul 12 • 7 PM

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Jul 18 • 4 PM

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Jul 18 • 8 PM

Momentum Series: Roomful of Blues
2025-04-12 16:00 - 18:00
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Hailed by DownBeat Magazine as “in a class by themselves,” this boisterous, super-tight big band has remained one of the most joyful blues ensembles in the world for more than five decades. Currently an eight-piece unit led by guitarist Chris Vachon, the band has never sounded fresher or stronger.
Led by guitarist Chris Vachon and featuring saxophonist Rich Lataille (a member since 1970), their current lineup includes powerhouse vocalist D.D. Bastos, who brings fresh, soulful energy to their timeless sound, Jeff Ceasrine on keyboards, Alek Razdan on baritone and tenor sax, Carl "Geerz" Gerhard on trumpet, John Turner on bass and Mike Coffey on drums.
With five GRAMMY nominations, seven Blues Music Awards, thousands of shows worldwide, and collaborations with legends like B.B. King and Eric Clapton to their critically acclaimed albums on Alligator Records, this “best little big band in the blues” (Blues Music Magazine) guarantees a night of foot-stomping, hand-clapping fun.
Their winning combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B and soul remains their calling card, as does their ability to get our listening room fans swaying in their seats. Roomful keeps on rockin’!
Sample Song
Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.
Made possible by the generous support of Joe & Luann Conlon, in honor of Thom O'Neil.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Hunter Root

American Roots Folk

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Jul 12 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

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Folk

event

Jul 18 • 4 PM

Caffè Lena

Folk Heritage Series: Kieran Kane & Rayna Gellert

Folk

event

Jul 25 • 8 PM

Momentum Series: Roomful of Blues
2025-04-12 20:00 - 21:30
Folk

Share:

Hailed by DownBeat Magazine as “in a class by themselves,” this boisterous, super-tight big band has remained one of the most joyful blues ensembles in the world for more than five decades. Currently an eight-piece unit led by guitarist Chris Vachon, the band has never sounded fresher or stronger.
Led by guitarist Chris Vachon and featuring saxophonist Rich Lataille (a member since 1970), their current lineup includes powerhouse vocalist D.D. Bastos, who brings fresh, soulful energy to their timeless sound, Jeff Ceasrine on keyboards, Alek Razdan on baritone and tenor sax, Carl "Geerz" Gerhard on trumpet, John Turner on bass and Mike Coffey on drums.
With five GRAMMY nominations, seven Blues Music Awards, thousands of shows worldwide, and collaborations with legends like B.B. King and Eric Clapton to their critically acclaimed albums on Alligator Records, this “best little big band in the blues” (Blues Music Magazine) guarantees a night of foot-stomping, hand-clapping fun.
Their winning combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B and soul remains their calling card, as does their ability to get our listening room fans swaying in their seats. Roomful keeps on rockin’!
Sample Song
Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV. Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket.
﻿Made possible by the generous support of Joe & Luann Conlon, in honor of Thom O'Neil.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 7:30 pm

Price

Member
$27.11

General
$30.37

Child or Student
$15.18

inclusive of fees

Get Tickets

Streaming

Similar Events

View All

Caffè Lena

Bright Series: Hunter Root

American Roots Folk

event

Jul 12 • 7 PM

Caffè Lena

The Wildwoods

Folk

event

Jul 18 • 4 PM

Caffè Lena

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Jul 18 • 8 PM
