THE STRAD SHOP SINGLE ISSUES. Lutherie April 17, Summer provides the richest time for musicians to make money from impromptu outdoor performance. Experienced buskers tell David Kettle how they go about it, and why the rewards can be greater than you might expect.

With a little preparation, and following the advice of experienced buskers, you might discover the significant rewards it can bring you, both financially and musically. The London Underground has licensed buskers who perform on designated pitches that they book in advance, and who have to pass an audition to gain their permit. More importantly, though, the Music Under New York MUNY programme actively celebrates them and promotes their activities.

New York-based violinist Luellen Abdoo, who has busked for about twelve years, explains: Think about where your potential audience will be, and how to make yourself sound good.

My favourite spots were in bus or train stations, or restaurant areas in the early evening, when people were strolling around.

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At the top or bottom of escalators is a good choice — the people on them have to listen to you whether they like it or not. Juritz stuck mainly to Bach for his round-the-world trip, and found that it was a sure-fire winner just about everywhere. I went back to Bach and a crowd soon gathered again.

Obviously I do the best I can technically, but you should try to communicate a feeling to the people passing you. I always tried to look like I was performing on stage in a concert hall. Also, I always tried to thank people if they gave me money. A little bit of eye contact or smiling at people helps a lot. You might be surprised at the answers. Graseck relates a hair-raising experience he had with his instrument while busking on the subway.

I jumped down and managed to get it before a train came. There was a crack in it, but Luiz managed to fix it for me. The dangers are generally minimal. But it might be helpful to take along a CD player to play concerto accompaniments. I can usually pay for my groceries and daily things with it.

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For a start, you never know who might be listening. Busking gives you the opportunity to perform something three or four times a day if you want to. Abdoo is realistic about the limitations of busking, but also about its benefits: But if you want to be a bit more creative, spontaneous, and take more risks, try playing on the street.

Choose the right location Find somewhere with a good acoustic, plenty of passers-by, and not too much background noise.

Select your repertoire carefully Bach and Baroque music work well, but you can explore jazz, folk or rock in different situations. Look the part Passers-by may see you before they hear you, so dress to get yourself noticed. Acknowledge your listeners Make respectful eye contact, smile, and thank them if they give you something.

Be prepared for a long performance If things are going well, you might be there for a few hours, so bring some food and water. Pay your dues You may need to pay tax on your busking income. This article was published in The Strad July issue.

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How To Make Money Busking

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