About Rochester Public Music

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Rochester Public Music brings people together through concerts, cultural programs, and music education. Our events are free and public by design.

We turn parks into concert venues, bring artists into classrooms, and share music across neighborhoods. Our work is rooted in shared experience, local connection, and the belief that music belongs to everyone.

Music with Purpose.

Rochester Public Music is a department of the City of Rochester.

Our Programs

  • FORWARD Park Concerts: Free summer concerts in Rochester parks. Local bands, local food, and space for everyone to gather.
  • Riverside Music Series: Live music. Big names. No tickets. Large-scale concerts featuring chart-topping acts and rising stars.
  • Sound School: In-school residencies where students explore rhythm, movement, and musical identity — from hip hop and taiko drumming to close-harmony singing.
  • Passport Sessions: Free outdoor concerts during Thursdays Downtown, celebrating culture and connection through sound.

The Wailin' Jennys

The Wailin’ Jennys

Live Music. Big Names. No Tickets.

Free, un-ticketed concerts turn public space into shared space, filled with music, food, and connection. It’s one of Rochester’s favorite summer traditions.

Schedule

6:00 p.m. | Get ready!

Come early to grab dinner and settle in. Food trucks start serving at 6:00 p.m., and the music starts at 7:00. Lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers are welcome.

7:00 p.m. | Molly Maher and Her Disbelievers

A staple of the Midwest music scene, Molly Maher delivers soulful Americana with grit, grace, and a bluesy undercurrent. Her band brings tight grooves and a timeless sound to every stage they play.

8:00 p.m. | The Wailin’ Jennys

Internationally acclaimed folk trio The Wailin’ Jennys are known for their spine-tingling harmonies, rich instrumentation, and emotionally resonant songwriting. With roots in Celtic, bluegrass, and Americana traditions, their music is both comforting and expansive. They're coming to the Midwest and making a special stop at Riverside for an all-ages, open-air concert under the stars. It’s a unique chance to hear world-class harmonies in one of Rochester’s most beloved public spaces.

More about The Wailin’ Jennys here.

All ages. All welcome.

All Riverside shows are free, all-ages, and accessible. CART (real-time captions) are available every week, and staff are on site to help with wayfinding, questions, and guest support.

For full details, visit our Accessibility page.

More about Riverside here.

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