Rochester Public Music Announces 2026 Call for Bands for Riverside Music Series and FORWARD Park Concerts
Rochester Public Music Announces 2026 Call for Bands for Riverside Music Series and FORWARD Park Concerts
December 1, 2025 – ROCHESTER, MINN. – Rochester Public Music (RPM) is announcing the upcoming call for local and regional bands interested in performing as opening acts for the 2026 Riverside Music Series or the FORWARD Park Concerts.
Applications will officially open today, December 1, 2025. This is a paid performance opportunity, and all submissions will be considered for either concert series. The deadline to apply is February 6, 2025, and selected bands will be contacted after April 1, 2025.
“Every summer, these concerts remind us how much talent is growing right here in our region,” said Rochester Public Music Director Avital Rabinowitz. “We’re opening applications for 2026 with a real focus on originality, strong live performance, and artists who are rooted in this community. I’m excited to see who steps forward.”
Bands must meet the following requirements:
- Have enough material prepared for at least one 45-minute set
- Provide their own backline
Preference will be given to:
- Bands performing mostly original music
- Bands with local ties (see online application for more information)
The online application is available now: https://bit.ly/3Jy4DBp
2026 Riverside Music Series
The Riverside Music Series will take place every Sunday from July 12 through August 9, 2026, in Mayo Park. This long-running, family-friendly, free community event features national headliners along with local food vendors, art activities for all ages, and giveaways.
2026 FORWARD Park Concerts
FORWARD Park Concerts will take place on June 3, June 10, June 17, August 12, August 19 and August 26, 2026. These Wednesday evening performances are hosted in walkable, pet-friendly, bike trail-connected parks—one in each City ward. This free event series highlights local bands and regional headliners and features family-friendly activities, including local food trucks, the Art Stop, the Rochester Public Library’s Bookmobile, and the Rochester Park & Rec Go! Play! Explore! Mobile Rec Trailer.
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