Local artist Brian Rogers will perform at Sacramento State today for the first Nooner of the fall semester.  Swing by the University Union Redwood Room at noon to catch the performance.

“A Nooner is basically a weekly event throughout the semester every Wednesday at noon, usually held in the Serna Plaza or the Redwood Room,” said UNIQUE’s Karen Chu. “It showcases local bands and occasionally special events such as Mexican Independence Day and film screenings.”

Rogers began performing at the age of 14.  Not claiming any specific genre, Rogers said he is determined to create his own niche.

“Dave Matthews (Band) came out in (1991). People did not know what to say about it and so he created his own niche,” Rogers said. “I would like to do that for my own community in Sacramento.  I think it’s an original gift that comes in its raw (form).”

Not only is Rogers a multi-genre artist, but he is also a multi-instrument artist who mainly plays bass and drums.  When he performs solo, he tends to play acoustic.

“Brian was chosen because he’s a great local artist and we’ve hosted him a couple times before,” Chu said. “(He) is all around a great musician who does not fall into a specific genre so he is likely to attract crowds of all types.”

Chu expects many students to attend because it is conveniently during the lunch hour for most.

“We would love for people to come out,” Chu said. “(Nooners have) been in effect every Wednesday since the beginning of UNIQUE in 1978.”

Although Nooners have been ongoing for about 33 years now, not many tend to show up.

Chu said not a ton of people show up, students will usually stop in if they’re interested or if they happen to pass by.

She said it is difficult to get people off campus to come to Nooners.

Rogers compared his audiences to a moldable fruit-flavored dessert to be handled with care.

“I would describe them as a bowl of Jell-O, waiting to be eaten by you. You’re putting your vibe out,” Rogers said. “You have to take your audience and mold them, just like you have to take Jell-O and mold it. An audience dictates how you start your show.”

Rogers said his last visit to Sac State was enjoyable and hopes Sac State students will stop by for his performance.

“I wanted to play at Sac State because it’s always fun playing for the students.  If they are walking by anyway they should definitely stop by,” Rogers said.

Following today’s show, Rogers already has a plan in motion due in a few months.

“As far as any kind of future plans I would like to put out a collection of songs in November,” Rogers said.

Rogers began playing the clarinet in the sixth grade and hopes kids will continue playing and enjoying music.

“To kids: Please keep playing music and have fun. I believe in you,” Rogers said.

Marwa Diaf can be reached at [email protected].