School of Music Slow Jam
2026-10-01 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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. ﻿

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Dom Flemons
2026-10-01 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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A Grammy Award winner, four-time Grammy nominee, two-time Emmy nominee, and United States Artists Fellow, Dom Flemons is one of America's most celebrated musicians and historians of American roots music. His performances span more than a century of American song, weaving together country, blues, bluegrass, folk, and early Americana traditions with heart, soul, and masterful musicianship.

He is the Co-Founder and original member of the groundbreaking Carolina Chocolate Drops, the first ever black string band to win a Grammy Award. An acclaimed solo artist, Flemons is known for his dynamic live shows, deep musical scholarship, and ability to bring the past vividly to life. He is a virtuoso on the banjo, guitar, harmonica, jug, fife, bones, and quills, and his storytelling bridges history, culture, and song in unforgettable ways.

His most recent solo album, Traveling Wildfire (Smithsonian Folkways), earned a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album alongside legends like Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon. His earlier project, Black Cowboys, helped shine a national spotlight on Black contributions to country and Western music.

Flemons has performed at iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry, the Kennedy Center, and festivals across the world. His collaborations include work with artists such as Tyler Childers, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Yo-Yo Ma, and he has been recognized by major institutions including the Smithsonian, Harvard, and PBS.

SAMPLE SONG

Experience a night of masterful music, rich storytelling, and a deep celebration of American roots traditions with Dom Flemons live at Caffè Lena and don't miss your chance to hear a true living treasure of American music in our intimate and historic listening room.

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.

﻿

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Doors Open: 6:30 pm

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Music with Miss Deb
2026-10-02 10:00 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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Experience this interactive and fun exploration of music with Miss Deb!

9 sessions

10:15 am – 11 am

$120

Scholarships available just email matt@caffelena.org

We will sing songs, move around, play with colorful props and play percussion instruments while enjoying and learning about music in an organic learning environment.

Songs from other cultures will be included along with traditional folk songs.

Fun for the whole family!

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Maswick & Brown
2026-10-02 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Dave Maswick and Joel Brown bring very different musical histories to their work together—and that's part of what makes this duo so interesting.

Their original songs draw from contemporary folk, acoustic pop and American roots music, built around close harmony singing, expressive lead vocals and Brown's intricate fingerpicked guitar. Their recent singles, "More Or Less" and "In the Time It Took For Us To Say Goodbye," showcase a partnership centered on strong melodies, thoughtful songwriting and two longtime musicians listening closely to one another.

Dave Maswick comes from a wonderfully eclectic corner of the musical map. As a member of the '80s band Blotto, he appeared in the video for "I Wanna Be a Lifeguard," which aired on MTV's very first day. His music also found an unlikely home at the Museum of Modern Art: "I Don't Know Why/Theme in Bar," from the cult film Basket Case, is part of MoMA's permanent collection. A longtime songwriter, producer and performer, Maswick is also a charter member of the Stony Creek Band and has been inducted into the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Hall of Fame.

Joel Brown is a classical guitarist whose career has taken him from Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center to performances in Europe and Asia with the Singapore Chinese Orchestra. His musical life extends well beyond the classical world. He's also a member of Triple Play, the genre-crossing trio with Chris Brubeck and harmonica player Peter Madcat Ruth, and an Artist-in-Residence at Skidmore College. Brown is also an Eddie Award winner for Song of the Year.

SAMPLE SONG

Together, Maswick & Brown leave plenty of room for the things at the center of their collaboration: a well-written song, two voices in harmony and the sound of acoustic instruments in very capable hands.

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.

﻿

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Caffe Lena @ SPAC
2026-10-03 12:00 - 17:30 | Saratoga Performing Arts Center, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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Caffè Lena @ SPAC – A Free Day of Music on the Charles R. Wood Stage

Caffè Lena @ SPAC returns with an unforgettable day-long celebration of live music on the Charles R. Wood Stage! This year’s lineup brings together five acclaimed artists & bands who each bring a unique voice to today’s folk and roots scene:

Vanessa Collier – A powerhouse singer and saxophonist, Vanessa Collier fires up blues, Memphis soul, R&B and funk with award-winning musicianship and irresistible energy.
Addison Agen – With a breathtaking voice and an intimate songwriting style, The Voice runner-up Addison Agen brings warmth, honesty and hope to beautifully crafted indie-folk and Americana.
Alla Boara – Alla Boara transforms nearly forgotten Italian folk songs into vibrant new music, weaving passionate vocals, jazz improvisation and centuries-old traditions into something wonderfully unexpected.
The Cody Sisters – The Cody Sisters pair gorgeous sibling harmonies and thoughtful songwriting with bluegrass roots and sparkling instrumental musicianship for a fresh take on contemporary folk.
Bad Penny Pleasuremakers – New Orleans’ Bad Penny Pleasuremakers bring the good-time sounds of pre-war America to life with ragtime, acoustic and country blues, traditional jazz and plenty of Louisiana spirit, featuring Saratoga native Jonathan Green.

From blues and bluegrass to indie-folk and global sounds, this eclectic bill showcases the depth and diversity of the folk tradition.

✨ Admission is free – please register to receive event updates and “Know Before You Go” details. By registering, your email will be added to SPAC and Caffè Lena’s mailing lists.

🌦 Rain or shine! Bring your friends, your family, your kids, your curiosity, and enjoy a day of extraordinary music in a beautiful setting.

REGISTER HERE

ARTIST INFORMATION:

Vanessa Collier

Powerhouse singer, songwriter, saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist blending blues, soul, R&B and funk. A twelve-time Blues Music Award nominee and four-time winner, including B.B. King Entertainer of the Year, Collier brings fierce musicianship and an independent spirit to her latest album, Do It My Own Way, a Memphis soul-inspired celebration of individuality, resilience and forging your own path.

Addison Agen

Indie-folk and Americana singer-songwriter known for her powerful, heartfelt voice and reflective songs exploring hope, acceptance and joy. First introduced to a national audience as runner-up on Season 13 of The Voice, she has since shared stages with artists including Bob Seger, Gordon Lightfoot and Brandy Clark.

Alla Boara

Alla Boara brings the ancient folk songs of Italy to life with a fresh blend of jazz, improvisation and contemporary sounds. Led by drummer and composer Anthony Taddeo with the expressive vocals of Amanda Powell, the ensemble reimagines songs and stories from Italy’s pre-industrial past with adventurous arrangements and exceptional musicianship, celebrating ancestral roots while finding something wonderfully universal in these nearly forgotten traditions.

The Cody Sisters

Maddie Cody, Megan Cody and Will Pavilonis, blend bluegrass roots with thoughtful songwriting, resonant harmonies and impressive instrumental musicianship. Raised in Colorado’s folk and bluegrass scene, Maddie and Megan have been making music together since childhood, with Pavilonis joining in 2020.

Bad Penny Pleasuremakers

New Orleans-based Bad Penny Pleasuremakers, Matt Bell & Joy Patterson, met on a blind date shortly after Hurricane Katrina, in 2005, and have been playing music as a duo and with full bands ever since. The band features Saratoga native Jonathan Green. They play ragtime, acoustic blues, country blues & traditional jazz from pre-WW2 America, with a focus on Louisiana history and roots.

﻿Caffè Lena @ SPAC is made possible by The Nordlys Foundation and Media Sponsor Exit 97.7/106.1, WEXT Radio.

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Playwright's Jam
2026-10-04 13:30 - 16:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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Looking for an opportunity to connect with local writers, actors, and directors? Want to share a theater piece you’re writing?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Tom Chapin
2026-10-04 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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In a career that spans six decades, 27 albums and three Grammy awards, Hudson Valley Troubadour Tom Chapin has covered an incredible amount of creative ground. In addition to his work as a recording artist, concert performer, storyteller and activist, he’s performed on Broadway and worked extensively in television, radio and film. As a music-maker, Chapin maintains two long and productive parallel careers, both as a respected contemporary folk artist and as a pioneer in the field of children’s music. During the height of the Covid shutdowns, Tom and his daughters, The Chapin Sisters, streamed 200 live concerts under the moniker “Mornings with Papa Tom.”

The son of noted jazz drummer and teacher Jim Chapin and the grandson of author/critic Kenneth Burke and portrait painter James Chapin, Tom grew up in a family that encouraged artistic pursuits. He began performing professionally as a teenager in the early 1960s, playing in Greenwich Village folk clubs alongside his siblings Harry and Steve as The Chapin Brothers. In 1976, Chapin launched his solo recording career with Life Is Like That, a first of a string of albums that further established his reputation as both a gifted storyteller and a natural entertainer. He also continued to venture into other creative areas, playing the lead role in the hit Broadway musical Pump Boys and Dinettes, working off-Broadway as musical director of both Cotton Patch Gospel and Harry Chapin: Lies and Legends, and serving as host of TV’s National Geographic Explorer. He’s also written and performed satirical topical songs for National Public Radio’s Morning Edition, and had a cameo role as the Vice Presidential candidate in Jonathan Demme’s 2004 remake of The Manchurian Candidate.

In addition to his musical and media endeavors, Chapin has long been an advocate for environmental causes, issues of hunger and social justice, and a supporter of music and the arts in public schools. “The pandemic has forced us all to reinvent ourselves. I still love the guitar, I still love to sing, and I still love the thrill of creation: a good song, a good recording, a good concert.”

SAMPLE SONG

Tom never stopped writing smart, thoughtful, funny and beautiful songs for the folk audience, his latest album, Songs Of Hope, features a collection of songs containing hopeful, positive, meaningful messages in these trying times. Some tell stories in the "Chapin Tradition," some evoke moments and emotions that grew into songs. Helped by amazing musicians, including Tom's daughters Abigail and Lily (The Chapin Sisters), John McCutcheon, and longtime bandmates Michael Mark and Jon Cobert. Musical support from friends including Eric Weisberg, Robin Batteau, Jay Ungar and Molly Mason, Jonathan Edwards, and Larry Campbell.

“At 80, Tom Chapin is at the top of his game … an album that is warm, wise, whimsical, and anthemic – and very right for our times.” (WFUV)

“One of the great personalities in contemporary folk music.” – The New York Times

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.

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Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2026-10-05 10:00 - 11:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 10 students. The class will run from 10:00 till 11:30.

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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Open Mic
2026-10-05 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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OPEN MIC NIGHT

DOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM

Play your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine, The Alt Weekly, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows, all attention is focused on the stage.

OUR HOSTS

First Monday – Rick Bolton

Second Monday – Carolyn Shapiro

Third Monday – Ray Pashoukos

Fourth Monday – Kate Blain

HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:

Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.

Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.

Doors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /

Sign up is first come first serve

You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.

Coffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.

Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.

CONTACT US

If you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org

﻿

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Storytelling Open Mic Featuring Beth Sabo Novik
2026-10-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Beth Sabo Novik has been telling folktales and sharing personal stories in Saratoga Springs for decades. Specializing in Jewish-themed stories that have the power to transform, she believes storytelling is one of the most profound forces for change in the world. With a warm, engaging presence and a gift for connection, Beth brings her stories vividly to life, creating experiences that are as meaningful as they are entertaining—filled with both humor and insight for audiences of all ages.

Beth currently serves as President of the Board of Temple Sinai and maintains a private massage therapy and coaching practice, where she helps individuals release anxiety and fear. She also leads workshops focused on cultivating joy and managing stress.

When she’s not doing all that, Beth has taken up “rucking” (walking with weight) a hobby her husband, Larry, insists is entirely unnecessary, arguing that one should only carry things that are truly useful…like water and tents. Beth calls it exercise. Larry remains unconvinced.

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.

﻿

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Folk Club Kids
2026-10-07 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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Folk Club Kids: Stories, Songs, and Sing-a-longs

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

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

Join Dan Berggren, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster for Folk Club Kids: a free weekly interactive concert series for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children are treated to 30 minutes of live music in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Inspire a love of music, community, and togetherness each week, learn, play, make friends and have fun!

This program is made possible by Andy and Bill Spence.

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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
2026-10-07 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

11 weeks starting September 30th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

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

Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music, including singing, exploring various string instruments, music theory basics, rhythm exercises, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch, confidence in performance practice, and more.

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet the instructors:

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

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

#youthclass

﻿

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Forget Everything You Know and Remember All the Things You Are
2026-10-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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Forget Everything You Know and Remember All the Things You Are

Wednesdays Oct 7, 14, 28 and Nov 4

6 pm – 8 pm

$195

We live in a culture that relentlessly asks us to be optimized, efficient, and productive. In this constant drive toward "betterment," we often lose touch with the parts of ourselves that exist simply to experience, to wonder, and to play. This four-week gathering is a refusal of that pressure. It is a space designed for creative reclamation: a place to step out of the role of the "performer" and back into the rhythm of your own humanity.

This is not a course about mastering a skill; it is a practice of being.

Rather than focusing on the finished product, we turn our attention to the process: the texture of a sound, the weight of a found object, the breath in the body, and the space between us. We explore the tension between intention and surrender, learning how to allow creativity to move through us without the need to make it "useful" or "perfect." Through somatic awareness, sound exploration, and the use of found materials, we practice the art of showing up exactly as we are.

You are invited to bring whatever tools or inclinations you already possess: a musical instrument, a visual or writing practice, a love of movement, or simply your own curious attention. Whether you

consider yourself an artist or not is irrelevant; the work is not about what you make, but about who you remember you are.

Bio:

Sarah K. Pedinotti is a multidisciplinary musician, producer, and storyteller based in Brooklyn, New York. Under the moniker Lip Talk, she creates music that blurs boundaries between song, art, and improvisation. She co-runs Snack Mix, an ongoing improvisation residency in NYC that brings together a rotating cast of musicians for spontaneous, exploratory performance. Her recent multimedia installation, Mantis Shrimp Matrix—which premiered in Bangkok and Tokyo—combined sound design, environmental art, and visual storytelling. Over the past twenty years, she has produced, performed, and recorded across a wide spectrum of styles.

Originally from New York’s Capital Region, Sarah began performing at local venues including Caffè Lena, where her love of live improvisation first took root. Her work invites audiences and students alike into a spirit of deep listening, play, and creative freedom.

Influences and Inspirations:

Pauline Oliveros: The practice of Deep Listening and expanding perception.
Nuar Alsadir: The concept of Animal Joy and laughter as a release from self-surveillance.
Adrienne Maree Brown: The principles of emergent strategy and revolutionary love.
Ross Gay: The cultivation of joy through radical noticing.
Yoko Ono: The power of participatory, instructional, and relational art.
Braiding Sweetgrass: The wisdom of reciprocity and our relationship with the material world.
Butch Morris: collective, real-time composition through conduction.

#adultclass

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Doors Open: 1:00 pm

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Sep 12 • 10 AM

Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2026-10-08 09:00 - 12:30, 2026-10-15 09:00 - 12:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson

Level 1 9:15 am – 10:10 am

Level 2 10:15 am – 11:10 am

Level 3 11:15 am – 12:10 pm

If you are unsure of which level to sign up for email: bt@kilakwa.com or matt@caffelena.org

Cost $195 for 9 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

﻿

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School of Music Slow Jam
2026-10-08 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-10-15 13:00 - 15:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

﻿

Doors Open
Doors Open: 1:00 pm

Price

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$5.00

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Sep 12 • 10 AM

Beth Nielsen Chapman
2026-10-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Flickering between the known and the unknown is a mystical state of being where time is suspended, and creative flow actualizes into form.” ~Beth Nielsen Chapman

Beth Nielsen Chapman is an American singer-songwriter, whose diverse body of work spans fifteen albums and seven #1 hits, including compositions that have been recorded by Elton John, Bonnie Raitt, Bette Midler, Willie Nelson, Neil Diamond, the Indigo Girls, and Keb Mo’ and her music has been featured in film and TV. “This Kiss”, ASCAP'S 1999 Song Of The Year, sung by Faith Hill, garnered her a Grammy nomination. Also nominated for a Grammy in 2012 for The Mighty Sky, she was Nashville NAMMY'S 1999 Songwriter of the Year and inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall Of Fame in 2016. Having lost her first husband to cancer in 1994, Chapman survived breast cancer herself in 2000 and a brain tumor in 2009 so in her concerts, workshops, and Keynotes, she draws from direct experience in her inspiring presentations about the fascinating dance between cognition, healing and the creative flow. Her songs take you on a journey through the depth, humor and the wonder of life.

Beth, an ambassador for the Buddy Holly Foundation has taught songwriting and creativity Master Classes at universities internationally including the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama, The Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, and the Berklee School of Music among others.

Beth’s latest album is “CrazyTown” produced by Ray Kennedy on Cooking Vinyl.

SAMPLE SONG

Join us for an evening with one of America's most celebrated songwriters and discover why Beth Nielsen Chapman's music continues to touch hearts across generations.

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

﻿

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Sep 13 • 1:30 PM

Music with Miss Deb
2026-10-09 10:00 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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Experience this interactive and fun exploration of music with Miss Deb!

9 sessions

10:15 am – 11 am

$120

Scholarships available just email matt@caffelena.org

We will sing songs, move around, play with colorful props and play percussion instruments while enjoying and learning about music in an organic learning environment.

Songs from other cultures will be included along with traditional folk songs.

Fun for the whole family!

Doors Open
Doors Open: 1:00 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Sep 12 • 10 AM

Don Armstrong and the Whiskeypalians
2026-10-09 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Caffè Lena favorite Don Armstrong first attended a show at the legendary venue 63 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 54rd appearance at Caffe Lena, and he is bringing his band, Don Armstrong & The Whiskeypalians! 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 last year’s Tucson Folk Festival cited a “wonderful and robust performance.”

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.

﻿

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Songwriting Club
2026-10-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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I'm happy to announce that Songwriting Club is back at Caffè Lena with a more structured time slot. "Second Saturday Songwriting Club" will meet (you guessed it) every second Saturday! Starting January 10th 10am – 12pm. Hosted by Reese Fulmer and Girl Blue! The club will meet monthly with special guests being a more "special" event. Bring your pens, pencils, instruments, thinking caps, favorite songs.

January 10th

10am – 12pm

$5 donation

cookies and coffee by donation

Doors Open
Doors Open: 1:00 pm

Price

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Sep 12 • 10 AM

Peak Jazz Series: Stacey Kent
2026-10-10 17:00 - 19:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Stacey Kent's voice is soft, warm, and very quiet. She sounds like she is telling a private secret or singing a sweet lullaby just for you.

She has built an international career by doing something that looks deceptively simple: getting completely inside a song.

The Grammy-nominated jazz singer is known for an understated, intimate style that puts lyrics and storytelling at the center. As The New Yorker wrote, Kent “transforms songs into short stories that brim with passion, romance, and wonder.” Her repertoire travels freely through the Great American Songbook, French chanson, Brazilian music and original compositions, sung in several languages and shaped by a lifelong curiosity about words, places and people.

That love of language has led to one of the more unusual collaborations in contemporary jazz. Since 2006, Kent’s husband and longtime musical partner, saxophonist and composer Jim Tomlinson, has written songs for her with Nobel Prize-winning novelist Kazuo Ishiguro. Their work explores many of the same subjects that run through Ishiguro’s fiction: memory, travel, longing and the complicated ways we understand our own lives.

Kent’s career has taken her to nearly 60 countries, with more than two million albums sold and over one billion streams. Her 2007 album Breakfast on the Morning Tram earned a Grammy nomination, and her recordings have received Gold and Platinum certifications and numerous international honors. Along the way, she has collaborated with Brazilian masters including Marcos Valle, Roberto Menescal and Danilo Caymmi.

Her latest album, A Time For Love, returns to the spare setting of voice and piano with longtime collaborator Art Hirahara, joined on several tracks by Tomlinson. Songs by Johnny Mandel, Serge Gainsbourg, Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Brian Wilson and Stevie Wonder sit alongside new work by Tomlinson and lyricist Cliff Goldmacher.

For all the scope of her career, Kent’s music works through small details: the turn of a phrase, a subtle shift in melody, the meaning hidden inside a lyric. In the close quarters of Caffè Lena, there’s nowhere for those details to get lost.

SAMPLE SONG

No photography and please silence all cell phones.

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.

﻿

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Peak Jazz Series: Stacey Kent
2026-10-10 20:00 - 22:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

Share:

Stacey Kent's voice is soft, warm, and very quiet. She sounds like she is telling a private secret or singing a sweet lullaby just for you.

She has built an international career by doing something that looks deceptively simple: getting completely inside a song.

The Grammy-nominated jazz singer is known for an understated, intimate style that puts lyrics and storytelling at the center. As The New Yorker wrote, Kent “transforms songs into short stories that brim with passion, romance, and wonder.” Her repertoire travels freely through the Great American Songbook, French chanson, Brazilian music and original compositions, sung in several languages and shaped by a lifelong curiosity about words, places and people.

That love of language has led to one of the more unusual collaborations in contemporary jazz. Since 2006, Kent’s husband and longtime musical partner, saxophonist and composer Jim Tomlinson, has written songs for her with Nobel Prize-winning novelist Kazuo Ishiguro. Their work explores many of the same subjects that run through Ishiguro’s fiction: memory, travel, longing and the complicated ways we understand our own lives.

Kent’s career has taken her to nearly 60 countries, with more than two million albums sold and over one billion streams. Her 2007 album Breakfast on the Morning Tramearned a Grammy nomination, and her recordings have received Gold and Platinum certifications and numerous international honors. Along the way, she has collaborated with Brazilian masters including Marcos Valle, Roberto Menescal and Danilo Caymmi.

Her latest album, A Time For Love, returns to the spare setting of voice and piano with longtime collaborator Art Hirahara, joined on several tracks by Tomlinson. Songs by Johnny Mandel, Serge Gainsbourg, Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Brian Wilson and Stevie Wonder sit alongside new work by Tomlinson and lyricist Cliff Goldmacher.

For all the scope of her career, Kent’s music works through small details: the turn of a phrase, a subtle shift in melody, the meaning hidden inside a lyric. In the close quarters of Caffè Lena, there’s nowhere for those details to get lost.

SAMPLE SONG

No photography and please silence all cell phones.

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: 1:00 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Folk Heritage Series: Richard Shindell
2026-10-11 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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Richard Shindell has a rare gift for stepping inside a life that isn’t his own and making you believe every word.

For decades, the acclaimed singer-songwriter has built songs around vividly drawn characters: a cab driver on his last fare of the day, a war widow, an immigration officer, a soldier, an Argentine grandmother, even Mary Magdalene. In Shindell’s hands, these aren’t simply characters in songs. They become fully realized people whose stories open onto bigger questions of love, loss, faith, politics, war, prejudice and the complicated business of being human.

His songwriting caught the attention of Joan Baez, who recorded three of his songs—“Fishing,” “Reunion Hill” and “Money for Floods”, for her 1997 album Gone from Danger and invited Shindell to join her on tour. He later joined Dar Williams and Lucy Kaplansky to form the celebrated folk trio Cry Cry Cry, whose 1998 album and subsequent tours became a touchstone for contemporary folk audiences.

Shindell’s own path has been just as interesting as the people who populate his songs. He has lived in a Zen Buddhist monastery, busked on the streets of Paris, collaborated with musicians including Larry Campbell, and eventually made his home in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Across a career spanning decades, his thoughtful, literate songwriting and quietly commanding performances have earned him a devoted following.

Richard Shindell is the kind of songwriter who rewards close listening. A single song can unfold like a short story, revealing something new with each verse—and sometimes leaving you thinking about its characters and taking them home with you.

At Caffè Lena, where songs and stories have always mattered, he is very much at home.

SAMPLE SONG

The Folk Heritage Series ​is Made possible by the ​generosity of the Charlie Pickett & Kathleen Rehl Endowment Fund​.

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.

﻿

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Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2026-10-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 10 students. The class will run from 10:00 till 11:30.

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.

Doors Open
Doors Open: 1:00 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Open Mic
2026-10-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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OPEN MIC NIGHT

DOORS 6:00PM // SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM

Play your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine, The Alt Weekly, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows, all attention is focused on the stage.

OUR HOSTS

First Monday – Rick Bolton

Second Monday – Carolyn Shapiro

Third Monday – Ray Pashoukos

Fourth Monday – Kate Blain

HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:

Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.

Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.

Doors open at 6:00 PM. Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /

Sign up is first come first serve

You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.

Coffee & Cookies are available for purchase in the Lobby. No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.

Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.

CONTACT US

If you have any questions you can give us a call at 518-583-0022 or email our Monday House Manager: artur@caffelena.org

﻿

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JAZZ at Caffe Lena : Chuck Lamb Trio with Special Guest Peter Bernstein
2026-10-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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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 October, the Chuck Lamb Trio welcomes acclaimed guitarist Peter Bernstein as his special guest for October’s JAZZ at Caffè Lena. One of the most respected jazz guitarists of his generation, Bernstein has spent more than three decades performing and recording with an extraordinary roster that includes Sonny Rollins, Diana Krall, Joshua Redman, Jimmy Cobb, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Brad Mehldau and Lou Donaldson. He has appeared on more than 300 recordings and released 14 albums as a leader, including What Comes Next, recorded with Sullivan Fortner, Peter Washington and Joe Farnsworth, and Better Angels, featuring Brad Mehldau, Vicente Archer and Al Foster. Known for his warm tone, effortless swing and deeply expressive improvisation, Bernstein brings a lifetime of jazz experience to the show.

SAMPLE SONG

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 his 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: 1:00 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Folk Club Kids
2026-10-14 10:30 - 11:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter 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/

Join Dan Berggren, Arielle Woodul and Connor Armbruster for Folk Club Kids: a free weekly interactive concert series for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children are treated to 30 minutes of live music in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Inspire a love of music, community, and togetherness each week, learn, play, make friends and have fun!

This program is made possible by Andy and Bill Spence.

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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
2026-10-14 14:30 - 17:30 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Open Mic Other Storytelling Workshop

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After School Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne

11 weeks starting September 30th

Use these links to sign up:

2:45, 3:40, 4:35

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

Weekly 45 minute classes will be focused on making music, including singing, exploring various string instruments, music theory basics, rhythm exercises, how to learn songs/tunes from scratch, confidence in performance practice, and more.

Youth Folk Ensemble is–

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet the instructors:

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

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

#youthclass

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Doors Open
Doors Open: 1:00 pm

Price

Suggested Donation
$5.00

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Howley
2026-10-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Singer Songwriter Workshop

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For more than a decade, brothers David and Martin Howley helped introduce audiences around the world to a fresh take on Irish traditional music as founding members of We Banjo 3. Blending the sounds of Ireland with bluegrass, Americana, and contemporary folk, they built an international following through remarkable musicianship, rich harmonies, and the unmistakable chemistry that only siblings can share.

Now, they begin a new chapter with Howley.

Joined by acclaimed fiddler and vocalist Kiana June (Gaelic Storm, Come From Away) and multi-instrumentalist Caitlin Leahy, the quartet brings together Irish tradition, American roots music, and original songwriting in a sound shaped by tradition but never confined by it.

Martin's award-winning banjo and mandolin playing, David's expressive vocals and guitar, Kiana's soaring fiddle, and Caitlin's inventive percussion and harmonies create performances filled with energy, warmth, and joyful collaboration.

A seven-time All-Ireland champion, Martin Howley became the first Irish banjo player to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. David has earned a reputation as both a compelling songwriter and captivating performer, while Kiana and Caitlin bring years of experience performing with some of the most respected artists in Celtic and folk music.

SAMPLE SONG

Whether you've followed the brothers since their We Banjo 3 days or are hearing them for the first time, Howley offers an evening of spirited musicianship, heartfelt songs, and the infectious fun of four exceptional musicians making music together.

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.

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