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We make music public
Rochester Public Music brings people together through free concerts, artist residencies and shared music experiences across the city. From Riverside and FORWARD to Passport Sessions and Sound School, our programs make live music easier to find, easier to attend and open to everyone.
Rochester Public Music is the City of Rochester’s public music department. We present free concerts, artist residencies, and music programs that bring people together in parks, schools and public spaces.
Our work includes large scale summer concerts, neighborhood park events, school-based residencies, cultural exchange programs and the behind-the-scenes coordination that make public events feel welcoming and easy to attend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers about Rochester Public Music events, updates, weather, photos, support and how to get involved.
Where can I find upcoming events?
Visit the Concerts & Events page to see upcoming Rochester Public Music events, including Riverside, FORWARD, Passport Sessions, Sound School, and other public programs.
How do I stay updated?
Visit the Event Updates & Alerts page for event updates, weather information, schedule changes, cancellations, and accessibility updates.
You can also sign up for email or text message updates through GovDelivery. After creating an account, you can choose which updates you want to receive, including concert announcements, event updates, and Music Board information.
Follow Rochester Public Music on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Spotify for announcements, photos, videos, and behind-the-scenes content.
Do concerts happen if it rains?
Most Rochester Public Music events are outdoors and may continue in light rain. If severe weather, lightning, high winds, or other unsafe conditions occur, performances may be delayed, shortened, or canceled.
Event staff monitor conditions closely and make decisions with public safety in mind.
For updates, visit the Event Updates & Alerts page before heading to the event.
Why don’t outdoor concerts move indoors?
Outdoor concerts involve large stages, production equipment, vendors, staffing, and site logistics that cannot usually be moved indoors at the last minute. If weather creates unsafe conditions, the event may be delayed, shortened, or canceled.
Do you take photos or video at events?
Yes. Rochester Public Music events take place in public parks and public spaces, and photography or video may be used to document and promote our programs.
If you notice a photo of yourself in our materials and would like it removed from our channels, please contact us at publicmusic@rochestermn.gov.
How can I get involved?
There are several ways to get involved with Rochester Public Music:
Visit the Supporters & Partners page to learn more about current opportunities.
Why do you ask for contributions if concerts are free?
Rochester Public Music is a department of the City of Rochester. Our events are funded through a combination of City investment, sponsorships, grants, partnerships, and public contributions.
Contributions help keep programs free and accessible, support artists, and improve the public event experience.
Visit the Supporters & Partners page to learn more or make a contribution.
What is Rochester Public Music?
Rochester Public Music is the City of Rochester’s public music department. We present free concerts, artist residencies, and music programs that connect people through live music.
How is Rochester Public Music different from the Rochester Civic Theatre or Mayo Civic Center?
Rochester Public Music is a City department that presents music programs in parks, schools, and public spaces.
Rochester Civic Theatre is a nonprofit performing arts organization based downtown.
Mayo Civic Center is a convention and event venue that hosts touring concerts, conferences, rentals, and community events.
Mission, Vision & Values
We bring people together through free concerts and shared music experiences that build community, connection, and belonging.
A Rochester where music helps people feel welcome, connected, and part of the community.
| VALUE | WHAT IT MEANS |
| Welcome | We create experiences that feel open, clear, easy to join, and truly for everyone. |
| Connection | We use music to bring people together across neighborhoods, backgrounds, and generations. |
| Access | We keep our programs free, public, and easy to be part of. |
| Curiosity | We invite people to discover new sounds, ideas, and experiences. |
| Responsibility | We use public resources thoughtfully and work with accountability and purpose. |
Follow Along
Get event announcements, updates, photos, videos, and behind-the-scenes moments from Rochester Public Music.
Choose email or text message updates for concert announcements, event updates, and Music Board information.
Contact Us
Connect with City Services
Whether you have a question, need to report a concern or aren’t sure which department to contact, 311 connects you with the right team quickly and efficiently.
