The "Freeola Customer Forum" forum, which includes Retro Game Reviews, has been archived and is now read-only. You cannot post here or create a new thread or review on this forum.
Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, a
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, a
There have been no replies to this thread yet.
Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, a
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, and frequently I’m drawn into watching the drums and dancing of the energetic group who occasionally play outside of Marks and Spencers.
Back home (admittedly in a small and somewhat countrified location), the local busker had one string on his guitar and a sign that claimed he wrote all his songs himself. Good on him for making the effort, I applaud these artistic folks who have the nerve to play in front of so many members of the public.
But why do they do it? Is it purely for the music or is it all about the money? Do they enjoy freezing to death in that dastardly north wind? I spoke to Alan Catlin, a music production student who busks in the City centre in his spare time, to find out some answers to my busking queries.
How often do you busk?
It depends, usually on a Saturday when towns busy, and sometimes on Fridays too.
How much do you make?
My best day was £143, my worst was £5.44.
Ouch, for how long?
Hours and hours and hours….!well about four.
Do you generally get a good reaction from the public?
Definitely, but then I’m amazing! No, people are pretty sound, it’s great when people stop and listen and look happy to hear what you’re playing, I like to think maybe my playing can brighten someone’s day a little bit.
Do you write your own music?
Yeah, it’s the best when people stop and listen to that, or if they ask you what you’re playing and you can say it’s your own. I play lots of classics when I’m busking though, people like to here a classic.
Do you get cold? (I am aware I am focusing on this issue, but it bothers me.)
Well, it’s Manchester, so yes. I try and find different spots when it’s raining or cold, although under the arndale is one of the only sheltered places and it’s fairly popular with buskers.
Would you like it if people brought you a cup of tea or coffee when you’re playing?
Yes! Definitely.
Has anyone ever thrown anything at you?
A scally once threw a stink bomb, and I’ve been given a flower by a little girl once. That was nice.
And finally, do you have any tips for buskers?
Be good at what you play…and look like you’re enjoying yourself, then even if you’re crap people won’t mind as much.
Looking around, buskers seem to be a varied and happy bunch. Playing for cash, a living and even for the enjoyment factor, like Alan and the two guys whose names I have yet to find. (If you’re reading this, please email me your names!) A final note; smile at the buskers, donate those few pennies in your pocket, and maybe even buy them a warming cup of tea to ward off the Manchester weather. Pleasant entertainment to accompany a days shopping, or annoying lay-abouts who should get jobs? Rosie Davies investigates.
Opinions on busking, like the talent of the buskers themselves, seems to consistently vary from person to person. When asked what he’d ask a busker, my friend Matt replyed “why don’t you get a real job”, adding as an afterthought “bloody lay-abouts”. Whilst I’m positive he was only half joking (...), many of my friends do find the musical delights adorning the streets somewhat straining at times, so much so that a friend from home working in a shop actually went and (politely) asked the infuriating tin whistle playing man outside if he would mind moving.
I, on the other hand, along with the majority I feel, think buskers are ace. My current love of the busking community has stemmed from being recently entranced by two musicians in the centre of town who completely blew me away with, amongst other things, a spellbinding cover of a Jamiroquai track. The singer had one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard and they were so obviously enjoying themselves (despite sub-zero temperatures) that you just couldn’t help but watch them and smile. Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since to speak to them, but look out for them in town and also at Ponana’s because I’ve heard that they play there and they are most definitely worth seeing.
Other buskers in the city aren’t quite so melodic and enjoyable to listen to, in fact, the crazy guitar throwing shouter who plays by the Arndale makes one nervous to walk within a hundred yard radius, let alone venture to his open case to give him money. At Christmas an incredibly talented quintet of children, including the tiniest busker I ever did see, played carols by the Arndale, captivating all the Christmas shoppers, and no doubt making a few quid as well...
Samba music for the Tsunami relief was a welcome addition to the city centre in January, a