By Nick Standring,
Staff Writer.
Like its residents, the North Bay music scene is bold and lively, with a wide array of genres played throughout the area. More locally, musician culture runs within the Santa Rosa High School student body, with dozens of student-musicians practicing in bands.
There is an array of venues within the North Bay, but a select few that stand out as central to the local music scene. Taqueria Mila is a small family-owned restaurant that provides a venue for musicians to perform, from famous bands like The All-American Rejects to smaller performers. “Mila is a venue I really, really want to perform at,” said junior and musician Ike Panick. Another staple is the Arlene Francis Center, hosting an array of performances and community events, from concerts to informational meetings on how to resist ICE. The Arlene Francis Center was built in 1896. It originally served as a train station but in 2009 was transformed into a prominent cultural center.
On Jan. 30, 2026, Panick performed his album release show at the Arlene Francis Center. He was accompanied by the groups Casino Black Coffee, I Forgot and The Radio Loves Me. This highly anticipated event brought out a large crowd of spirited teens, from hardcore screamo fans to the sensitive Morrissey type. First on stage was I Forgot, performing the pre-game show to get everyone ready. The passionate tone of I Forgot’s vocalist and the harsh guitar made for a fiery opener.
After their set, the intermittent break set in. Groups flooded into the commons to socialize. People from all different backgrounds came together under a common motive: to listen to music. Music bridges the divide between humanity, bringing together an otherwise divided society. On that note, I encourage you to participate in your local music scene. Whether you perform or listen, you will be building community in an increasingly disconnected world.
Now, you may be wondering, how can I join a band? There are many opportunities to do so. If you play an instrument you can join any kind of band. A good place to start is to go to your local community centers. The Arlene Francis Center and music stores such as Stanroy in downtown Santa Rosa typically have bulletin boards where bands post their advertisements. Sometimes, bands like The Noir Filter post their adverts around schools they go to.
The Noir Filter is a band that is looking for instrumentalists within the ages of 14-16. They are a self-described math rock band looking for people who are passionate about music and love to jam. The members, Corey and Michael, are open to any skill level as long as the player is truly passionate. They are currently looking for a bass and guitar player.
The North Bay music scene is more than entertainment: it’s community. From historic venues to high school bands, it connects people through creativity and passion. Whether you play, sing or simply listen, showing up supports local artists and keeps the animated culture thriving.
