The Fine Art of Busking
Clara
Clara busking
Busking is when you perform in a public place for tips. Being in a new place and playing an instrument, I decided to give busking a try. How hard can it be? Buskers have been around ever since Ancient Rome. You see them all over — any street musician is a busker. So, what’s there to it? More than you may think!
First: you need to have a catchy act and you need to be able to do it for a good stretch of time. I guess the next most important thing is where you perform, or in the busking world, your "pitch." A place that’s busy, but not overcrowded. A place that’s out of the way, but near the business. Personally, I like large street corners.
During ancient times, most buskers were homeless. Now? Sure, some are needing a bit of cash, but most of them are people like me who want to have fun and earn a bit of extra change. I suppose that the second half of the definition of busking talks about money. To be honest, it’s a great motive. To go out and do something you love, PLUS get paid for it, is definitely not a bad idea! Although, this can also be a con. What if I don’t get any money? Or
First: you need to have a catchy act and you need to be able to do it for a good stretch of time. I guess the next most important thing is where you perform, or in the busking world, your "pitch." A place that’s busy, but not overcrowded. A place that’s out of the way, but near the business. Personally, I like large street corners.
During ancient times, most buskers were homeless. Now? Sure, some are needing a bit of cash, but most of them are people like me who want to have fun and earn a bit of extra change. I suppose that the second half of the definition of busking talks about money. To be honest, it’s a great motive. To go out and do something you love, PLUS get paid for it, is definitely not a bad idea! Although, this can also be a con. What if I don’t get any money? Or
"Really, the experience is so amazing."
at least, hardly any? First: it’s most likely the area you are in. Change locations next time. Change as often as necessary! Next off, for me, it’s a lot about the experience. If you go out busking, be prepared to talk a lot. I’ve met several really cool people when I’ve gone out to play. One lady sat and chatted with me for several minutes, and she stayed and watched me the whole time I sang! A guy walking by told me about a friend of his who busked throughout Europe to get ideas for a restaurant he was starting!
Really, the experience is so amazing. Busking is simple. Find your pitch, take out your guitar and play (and don’t forget to put out a hat or something!) Smile at the people and honestly enjoy the experience!