After School Youth Folk Ensemble with Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
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 focussed 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. At the end of the final class of the session there will be a recital/sharing session for family and friends (with Lena's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, of course!).
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
2025-2026 School Year Schedule:
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!
Session 1 Dates: Sept 10 – Nov 12 (10 weeks)
Session 2 Dates: Nov 19 – Jan 21 (7 weeks) [off 11/26, 12/24, 12/31]
Session 3 Dates Jan 28 – Jun 3 (17 weeks) [off 2/18, 4/8]
(Summer day camps are offered as well – 2026 details TBA)
End of session recitals are on the final day of class: 11/12, 1/21, 6/3 from 5:30-6pm
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.