People are quick to find fault with Norfolk. The word 'boring' seems to be commonly used and people often add that there is 'nothing happening'. But where music is concerned, this could not be further from the truth.

Norwich is home to many vibrant, exciting venues which play host to artists and bands ranging from those taking their first steps in the music industry, to those household names known not only across the country, but across the world.

With many venues to choose from it would be almost impossible to present Norwich's music scene in its full glory. But here is a short list of a few to open your mind, to help shed light on the smaller venues as well as those which host the more well-known bands.

Norwich Arts Centre

When mentioning music venues in Norwich, the Arts Centre is probably one many of us have heard of. Winner the prestigious NME Best Small Venue award in 2014 (having previously been shortlisted for the award in 2011, 2012, 2013), it really is one of the best in the country. The venue is inside a converted church which makes an interesting space for any musical performance.

51 Saint Benedicts Street (norwichartscentre.co.uk)

The Waterfront

The Waterfront down by the River Wensum plays host to many a mid-level touring band on their way to the big time as well as the more popular and mainstream bands. Originally built as a venue for local musicians to play in, it failed financially after several years in 1993. It was at this point the Union of UEA Students stepped in and made an offer to the council. The offer was accepted and the Waterfront has become larger and larger in the following years playing host to some very famous bands.

139-141 King Street (ueaticketbookings.co.uk)

UEA

The UEA's Nick Rayn's LCR is Norwich's biggest and busiest venue in terms of touring bands. The University of East Anglia may be situated a short bus ride out of the city centre, but it's one of the best equipped venues in the region.

Union of UEA Students, University of East Anglia (ueaticketbookings.co.uk)

The Birdcage Pub

The Birdcage presents regular acoustic gigs downstairs in the 'ballroom' area, as well as cabaret nights, poetry, comedy, and open mic nights.

23 Pottergate, NR2 1DS (01603 633534, thebirdcagenorwich.co.uk)

You could spend a full year in Norwich and not find some of the smallest venues but these often can hold as much excitement and new music as other larger venues.

As a huge music fan and a proud Norfolk dweller and can happily say that Norwich is an exciting city to discover, explore and enjoy music and I implore you to make the most of what is on offer.

Joe Hamilton, 16, Wolterton