Caffè Lena

Mandolin Vitamins - Tunes, Techniques and Ensemble Music
2025-05-05 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Caffè Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Family Folk

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Attention Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Mandola and Mandocello Players – The purpose of this is 4 week, in person, class is for everyone to improve their mandolin skills. Each week we will spend time on right and left hand techniques, learn some new tunes and play Mandolin Ensemble pieces. This class is intended for advanced beginner and up mandolin family players and is limited to 12 students. The class will run from 1:00 till 2:30 on May 5, 12, 19 and June 2. Alan Epstein has been playing mandolin for the past 54 years and has been teaching others to play mandolin for 30 years. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pa, he has lived in the Capital District since 2008 and is currently living in Glens falls, NY. Alan has preformed in bluegrass bands in Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan and New York. In 2002 Alan was the founder of the modern day Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra. and has been a Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam instructor since 2012.

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

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

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

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The Resonant Rogues
2025-05-04 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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The Resonant Rogues’ dark Appalachian folk paints a picture of their lives in the mountains of Western North Carolina and on the road. Anchored by the songwriting duo of Sparrow Smith (banjo, accordion) and Keith Smith (guitar), they’ve traveled the byways and highways of America and crossed the oceans with instruments in tow. From riding freight trains to building their own homestead, the pair are no strangers to blazing unconventional trails.

The Rogues just released a new album, recorded in Nashville with renowned producer Andrija Tokic (Alabama Shakes, Hurray for the Riff Raff), featuring guest appearances from Sierra Ferrell, Benjamin Tod, John James Tourville (Deslondes), and Jason Dea West.

2025 Festivals include Merlefest, Blue Ox, Pickin in the Backwoods, Great River Folk Fest, and Muddy Roots.

“This is country music as classic as it comes.”-Holler Country

“Her soaring singing, playing the accordion, or clawhammer banjo- Sparrow is a talented force.” -Saving Country Music

“Their intense cohesion is so intertwined that it feels like they’re playing with one pair of hands.” –No Depression

“I urge you to get out and hear them” -Lonesome Highway

SAMPLE SONG

The Resonant Rogues show at Caffè Lena promises to be an intimate, soulful, and foot-stomping journey through the landscapes of folk, country, and timeless American storytelling.

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

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Online School of Music: Gretchen Peters Songwriting Intensive
2025-05-04 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-04-27 14:00 - 16:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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A two-part online songwriting intensive with Gretchen Peters

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

Part One: Sundays April 27 – May 18, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

Class Description

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

In Part One, we’ll focus on:

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

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

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

Bring to our first class

Pen & paper or your preferred way of taking notes

An open heart and mind

How to prepare:

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

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Playwright's Jam
2025-05-04 13:30 - 16:00
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Kyran Daniel
2025-05-03 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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“An incredible force in music… always received with thunderous applause and standing ovations.” – Tommy Emmanuel

Guitarist, composer, and producer Kyran Daniel brings his distinctive style to Caffè Lena for an evening of intricate, expressive guitar music. His career began alongside Grammy nominee Tommy Emmanuel, leading to a full scholarship at Berklee College of Music and collaborations with artists like G Flip, Gretta Ray, and Grammy-winning producer Printz Board (Black Eyed Peas, Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson).

After years of producing and performing worldwide, Kyran has returned to his roots as a solo instrumentalist, crafting music that blends fingerstyle guitar, cinematic soundscapes, and global influences. His upcoming album, Like The Night Itself, features Tommy Emmanuel and Printz Board and showcases his thoughtful compositions and skilled musicianship.

Prepare to witness another in a line of incredible solo guitar players. Caffè Lena has recently brought you Yasmin Williams, Kaki King, Gareth Pearson, Daniel Champagne, and Christine Lenée, and now, Kyran Daniel will take the stage at Caffè Lena.

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.

﻿

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Little Folks Series featuring Deb Cavanaugh & Dandelion Wine
2025-05-03 15:00 - 16:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Looking for a fun, interactive, and musical experience to share with your little ones? Deb Cavanaugh ( aka, Miss Deb) & Dandelion Wine bring their joyful, high-energy show to Caffè Lena’s Little Folks Series, blending folk, blues, rock, and a touch of musical magic to delight audiences of all ages!

Sing, dance, and laugh along, with mountain dulcimer, guitar, upright bass, and more, this dynamic group makes every performance an engaging adventure filled with fun songs, playful storytelling, and music that kids (and grown-ups!) will love.

Expect a mix of original tunes & familiar favorites – from classic folk songs to playful takes on beloved hits. Deb’s warm stage presence and deep connection to music make her a natural storyteller, and every show is an opportunity for kids to clap, sing, and maybe even try an instrument!

Deb Cavanaugh is a seasoned performer and music educator who has played everything from rock & roll to jazz and even sang in a choir directed by Duke Ellington. With Dandelion Wine, she creates a performance that is both musically rich and wonderfully interactive—making it a perfect first concert experience for young music lovers.

Join us for a morning of music, laughter, and family fun—because music is best when shared!

SAMPLE SONG

The Little Folks Series is made possible by the generous support of Kevin & Claudia Bright.

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*CANCELED* Momentum Series: Joe Louis Walker
2025-05-02 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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*TONIGHT'S SHOW IS CANCELED DUE TO ILLNESS. ALL TICKETS HAVE BEEN REFUNDED TO THE ORIGINAL PURCHASE METHOD. Please contact Sales@caffelena.org with any questions.

Chick Corea glibly referred to him as "The Chick Corea of Blues," and Aretha Franklin called him "The Bluesman." Blues Hall of Famer Joe Louis Walker has an impressive list of credentials: a six-time Blues Music Award winner, nominee for the Contemporary Blues Grammy and a duet with B.B. King on his Grammy award-winning Blues Summit album. But that doesn’t come close to describing the euphoria-inducing, feel-good rollick of one of the greatest bluesmen in a generation. Billboard hailed his playing as “…gutbucket blues, joyous gospel, Rolling Stones-style rock crunch, and aching R&B. Walker’s guitar playing is fine and fierce.” NPR described Joe Louis Walker as “a legendary boundary-pushing icon of modern blues.”

There is no shortage of praise; Blues Revue calls Walker "one of contemporary blues' most dynamic and innovative, musicians releasing consistently exciting, soulful, heartfelt, and spellbinding music."

Living Blues stated, "His fretwork is indelibly stamped with his trademark blend of emotional heat and impeccable precision. Even at his most flamboyant, Walker sounds like he's playing ideas, not just notes."

Joe Louis Walker’s new album, Weight of the World (out this past February via Forty Below Records), is a bold testament to his genre-spanning mastery. Produced by Eric Corne, the album blends blues, soul, gospel, funk, and rock, showcasing Walker’s legendary versatility. He continues to push boundaries, proving that roots music only deepens with time.

A brilliantly lyrical guitarist, soulful singer, and prolific songwriter, Walker just might bring the house down.

SAMPLE SONG

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.

Made possible by the generous support of Joe & Luann Conlon, in honor of Thom O'Neil.

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Tannahill Weavers
2025-05-01 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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For over 50 years, the Tannahill Weavers have set the standard for fiery instrumentals, soul-stirring ballads, and the unmistakable spirit of Scotland. A Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame group, they bring a mix of bagpipes, fiddle, guitar, and powerful vocals, delivering music that is as timeless as it is electrifying.

Now joined by Iain MacGillivray, Scotland’s youngest Clan Leader, the Tannies continue to push the boundaries of tradition. A fluent Gaelic speaker and sought-after musician, Iain has contributed to hit productions like Outlander and Men in Kilts, adding even more depth to the band's legendary sound.

“An especially eloquent mixture of the old and the new.” – New York Times

“Seminal trailblazers… now also rank as national treasures.” – Glasgow Celtic Connections

Join us for a thrilling night of Celtic music, history, and humor!

SAMPLE SONG

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School of Music Slow Jam
2025-05-01 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-04-24 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-04-17 13:00 - 15:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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

THERE ARE NO PRE-SHOW RESERVATIONS FOR THE JAMS!

SUGGESTED DONATION AT THE DOOR. $5.00 per person

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

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

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

What is a Slow Jam?

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

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Guitar Workshops with Bruce Thompson
2025-05-01 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-04-24 09:00 - 12:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Guitar Workshop

Level 1 and 2

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

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

Topics Include:

Open position chords and how they are related to each other

Moving from chord to chord smoothly and in time

Rhythm and strumming techniques

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

Movable chord shapes

Learning new songs

Playing and performing with other musicians

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

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Lena Go Round-Songwriters Showcase Hosted by Erin Harkes
2025-04-30 19:30 - 21:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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For 65 years, Caffè Lena has been a place where great artists get their start—a stage where music is more than just sound; it’s stories, community, and discovery. The Lena Go Round continues that tradition, offering a monthly showcase of rising songwriting talent, curated and hosted by powerhouse musician, comedian, entrepreneur, and all around powerhouse, Erin Harkes.

What makes Lena Go Round special?

It is a curated lineup of the best up-and-coming songwriters—handpicked to deliver unforgettable performances
It is a true “in the round” experience—where songwriters take turns sharing their music and stories, creating an intimate and inspiring atmosphere
It is a direct link to Caffè Lena’s legacy—this stage launched careers, and Lena Go Round continues to nurture the next generation of folk, Americana, and indie artists

The lineup for April is Deanna DeLuke, Matt Griffin, Zan Strumfeld, and Erin! You will always hear something fresh, moving, and unforgettable. Whether you're a lifelong folk fan or just love discovering the next big thing, Lena Go Round is the place to be.

Special Congratulations to Zan Strumfield for winning two Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards< "The Eddies"! Zan won for Americana Artist of the Year and Album of the Year!

﻿Come be part of a Capital District must-see event, where the best of the best take the stage before the world catches on.

SAMPLE SONG

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10 Week Spring After School Folk Ensembles
2025-04-30 14:30 - 17:30
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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

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

#youthclass

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The Michael Mills Magic Show
2025-04-29 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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He's back! After a four-month run of shows at Caffe Lena in 2024, magician Mills returns with an all-new show featuring jaw-dropping surprises, quick wit, and an unforgettable good time.

Michael’s performance is playful, surprising, and packed with moments that will leave you laughing, amazed, and wondering if you can trust your own eyes.

This show is the perfect way to hit pause on life's to-do list and just have a great time. Bring your curiosity—and someone to share the 'Did that really just happen?!' moments with!

Recommended for ages 14+

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Open Mic
2025-04-28 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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OPEN MIC NIGHT
SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM

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

OUR HOSTS

First Monday – Rick Bolton

Second Monday – Carolyn Shapiro

Third Monday – Ray Pashoukos

Fourth Monday – Kate Blain

HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:

Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.
Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.
Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /
Sign up is first come first serve
You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.
Full table service (see menu). No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.
Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.

CONTACT US

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

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"A Joyful Noise!" Sunday Gospel Dinner with Soulist Garland Nelson & Friends
2025-04-27 14:00 - 16:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Early Sunday 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 early Sunday 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 mid-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!

An early Sunday 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.

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.

This event is made possible by the generous support of Dottie Pepper and David Normoyle.

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Mark Cosgrove & Good Medicine
2025-04-26 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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When it comes to jaw-dropping guitar work and crowd-pleasing performances, Mark Cosgrove and his band take a backseat to no one. A National Flatpicking Champion and Doc Watson Guitar Champion, Cosgrove is known for his lightning-fast picking, rich musicality, and dynamic stage presence.

But this isn’t just a solo act—this band delivers. Featuring some of the most respected players in roots and acoustic music, this quartet brings incredible energy, chemistry, and musicianship to every show:

Nate Grower (David Bromberg Quintet & Big Band) – A monster fiddler whose playing is both fiery and expressive

Peter Lorch – Brilliant high harmony singing & rhythm guitar, adding depth and texture to every song

Larry Cohen (Tony Trischka & Skyline) – A new acoustic music pioneer, holding down the bottom end on bass

With a blend of bluegrass, swing, folk, and country, this band will take you on a high-energy, masterfully played musical journey.

SAMPLE SONG

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﻿

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Sep 10 • 1 PM

Laurie MacAllister of Red Molly
2025-04-25 20:00 - 21:30
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Best known as a part of Americana trio Red Molly, MacAllister brings her soulful voice & heartfelt storytelling on her Solo Debut Tour.

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Laurie MacAllister, the soulful singer-songwriter best known as a part of the beloved Americana trio Red Molly. With her warm, captivating voice and heartfelt storytelling, Laurie has been a cherished figure in contemporary folk music for over two decades. From headlining festivals like MerleFest to lending her voice to the iconic Folgers Coffee jingle, Laurie’s journey has been as remarkable as her music.

Her solo album, The Lies the Poets Tell, is a tribute to the contemporary folk music scene, celebrated by SiriusXM as “Defining. A curated collection packed with emotional vibrancy.”

In late 2024, Laurie launched her solo career, marking the start of an exciting new chapter. Now, on her Solo Debut Tour, she brings her soul-stirring songs and intimate stage presence to fans old and new.

Sample Song

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

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Sep 9 • 10:30 AM

Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
2025-04-25 12:00 - 13:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Bring your lunch & listen to a playlist curated by a Caffe Lena Community member. The April Playlist is by the Rochmon himself –Chuck Vosganian! The D.J. spinning those records will be sound man & photographer extradinaire, Joe Deuel!

All are welcome to gather at Lena’s from Noon to 1 PM on the last Friday of each month to enjoy musical memories and new discoveries. The playlist is selected by a different community member each month from the Captain Fun Listening Library of vinyl records in Lena’s lobby. Chuck “Rochmon” Vosganian usually spins the records and gets the conversation flowing. Bring a brown bag lunch. Coffee and tea are provided.

The Captain Fun Listening Library occupying the north wall in the Caffè Lena lobby is comprised of 1,516 vinyl albums and several hundred CDs selected from Al “Captain Fun” McKenney’s expertly curated collection. This treasure trove of folk, blues and jazz was left us in 2015 and we share it through our monthly listening hour, as Al wished. Enjoy the memories these records bring back, and dig deep into American roots music.

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FREE

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Sep 10 • 1 PM

Overit Home Grown Series: Honeysuckle
2025-04-24 19:00 - 20:30
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Known for their irresistible vocal chemistry, progressive folk duo Honeysuckle draws inspiration from American roots and bluegrass.

With a sound that glows with Americana warmth and modern folk energy, Honeysuckle crafts harmonies that captivate and transport. This Upstate NY-based duo, featuring Holly McGarry and Chris Bloniarz, blends lush two-part vocals with intricate arrangements on acoustic guitar, banjo, mandolin, and subtle synth textures. Their music resonates with fans of Boy & Bear, The Novel Ideas, and Shook Twins, offering a dynamic interplay between traditional folk roots and contemporary sonic landscapes. From delicate ballads to vibrant, foot-tapping melodies, Honeysuckle brings an intimate and immersive live experience that lingers long after the last note fades.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of rich harmonies and heartfelt storytelling with Honeysuckle.

This show with Honeysuckle is the second in a new series, Overit Home Grown Sessions, a new live concert series celebrating local music talent, in partnership with Overit, a full-service creative and consulting agency based in Albany, NY.

Home Grown Sessions will spotlight both established and fast-rising artists from across the Capital Region and greater Upstate New York, offering them a platform to share original work on one of the most storied stages in America.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of rich harmonies and heartfelt storytelling with Honeysuckle and enjoy the new Overit Home Grown Sessions.

Sample Song

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

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Sep 9 • 10:30 AM

10 Week Spring After School Folk Ensembles
2025-04-23 14:30 - 17:30
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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

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

#youthclass

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Sep 10 • 1 PM

Folk Club Kids
2025-04-23 10:30 - 11:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

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

Stream live and free on Facebook and Youtube!

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

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

#youthclass

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Sep 9 • 10:30 AM

Open Mic
2025-04-21 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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OPEN MIC NIGHT
SIGN UP 6:30PM // SHOW STARTS 7:00PM

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

OUR HOSTS

First Monday – Rick Bolton

Second Monday – Carolyn Shapiro

Third Monday – Ray Pashoukos

Fourth Monday – Kate Blain

HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:

Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.
Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.
Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /
Sign up is first come first serve
You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.
Full table service (see menu). No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.
Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.

CONTACT US

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

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FREE

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Sep 10 • 1 PM

The Slambovian Circus of Dreams Unplugged
2025-04-19 20:00 - 22:30
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Step behind the curtain with The Slambovian Circus of Dreams Unplugged, raw, and brimming with Woodstock-tinged acoustic enchantment!

Join us for a rare and intimate evening with The Slambovian Circus of Dreams, unplugged! This special trio performance features the creative heart of the band: Joziah Longo (vocals/guitar), Tink Lloyd (accordion, cello, mandolin, flute), and Sharkey McEwen (guitar).

Take a peek behind the “Slambovian Curtain” as they strip things down to the essentials, creating a personal and dynamic connection with the audience. You'll hear rarely performed songs from their extensive catalog, plus tracks from their critically acclaimed album, A Very Unusual Head. Of the album, Americana UK said, "9 out of 10 – Love at first spin!"

Expect an evening filled with Woodstock-tinged psychedelia, Americana, and folk-rock, blended with innovative storytelling and heartfelt performances. Their songwriting draws inspiration from legends like Dylan, Bowie, and The Waterboys, delivering an acoustic magic that taps into a deeper human connection.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the "Slambovian" experience, this show is a must-see for anyone who loves innovative music with heart and soul.

Sample Song

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

﻿.

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Sep 9 • 10:30 AM

65th Anniversary Folk Heritage Series: Dan Berggren
2025-04-18 20:00 - 22:00
American Roots Bluegrass Celtic Family Folk

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Join Adirondack songsmith Dan Berggren for an evening of heartfelt stories, timeless melodies, and songs rooted in tradition and humanity.

Join us for an evening of heartfelt storytelling and timeless music with recent Eddies Hall of Fame inductee, Dan Berggren, a tradition-based songsmith whose music celebrates the beauty of human connection and the natural world. For over five decades, Dan has captivated audiences near and far, weaving stories with honesty, humor, and a deep sense of place.

Raised in the Adirondacks, Dan’s songs are rooted in the values of home, hard work, and community, yet their reach is universal. His music has traveled across borders—from Kentucky to Zimbabwe, Belgium to Bulgaria—carrying lessons that resonate with audiences everywhere.

As an award-winning musician and educator, Dan has been a beloved presence at Caffè Lena for 40 years. He also co-hosts Folk Club Kids, our weekly program for preschoolers, and runs Sleeping Giant Records, producing over 20 albums of original and traditional folk music. His performances are a celebration of life’s joys and struggles, wrapped in melodies that linger long after the last note fades.

Don’t miss this intimate evening with a local treasure who has touched hearts worldwide. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an experience—rooted in tradition, alive with authenticity, and brimming with heart.

Sample Song

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

The Folk Heritage Series is made possible by the Charlie Pickett & Kathleen Rehl Endowment Fund.

﻿

Price

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FREE

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Sep 10 • 1 PM

The April Fools: Christine Lavin, Buskin & Batteau, John Forster &Carla Ulbrich
2025-04-17 19:00 - 21:00
American Roots Bluegrass Country Family Folk Workshop

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Five of the funniest folk musicians on the scene, one unforgettable night! The April Fools bring you a perfect mix of witty songwriting, top-tier musicianship, and side-splitting humor. If you love folk music with a comedic twist, this is the show for you!

Featuring:

Christine Lavin – Founder of Four Bitchin’ Babes & On a Winter’s Night

"A folkzinger" – Orlando Sentinel

SAMPLE SONG

John Forster – Four-time Grammy nominee

"If Joni Mitchell & Daffy Duck had a love child, he’d probably write songs like John Forster." – Boston Globe

SAMPLE SONG

Carla Ulbrich – As heard on SiriusXM Comedy & Dr. Demento

"Erudite and charming" – Goldmine Magazine

SAMPLE SONG

Buskin & Batteau – Hit songwriters

"Irresistible, melodic, sensual, grit and killer wit" – Washington Post

SAMPLE SONG

Expect razor-sharp satire, delightful absurdity, and top-notch musicianship from this crew of folk luminaries. You’ll leave with laugh lines and a full heart!

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

﻿

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