Q&A for How to Be a Street Musician

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Question

Will people hear my violin?

Rebekah Bastien

Community Answer

Depending on the area, you may or may not be able to be heard. If you feel that your music is drowned out, set up a microphone to help projection your sound.

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Question

What should I do if it is cold out?

Community Answer

Most instruments freeze up in the cold and get out of tune, so warm up before going outside to play.

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Question

Can I play in a town square?

Community Answer

Most likely you can, but make sure to check with the city hall to be sure it is legal to do so. It's also a good idea to make surrounding businesses aware of your presence.

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Question

What happens if you don't have a microphone?

Community Answer

Most street musicians play a instrument rather than sing/rap. You can buy a cheap but sturdy mic for around $20, or borrow one.

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Question

Is jazz a good genre for street music?

Community Answer

Yes. There is room for improvisation, so you can make up your own tunes or a new take on an already existing jazz melody. In addition, jazz is dancing music, so it's fun and easy to get people moving around a little while you play.

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Question

Do you need a permit to play music in public?

Community Answer

It depends on the city. Some places requires a permit, others don't. Do some Googling and see what you find out about your city's regulations.

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Question

What's the best musical instrument for a street musician?

Community Answer

A powerful sounding instrument is probably best. Something like a brass instrument or a saxophone or an electric guitar would work best for attracting listeners.

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Question

Can I play a ukulele on the street?

Community Answer

There's no reason not to. If you're decent, you'll probably get some tips. You might want to look for an area that's relatively quiet, though, because ukes are fairly small and don't generate a lot of sound on their own.

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Question

Who do I check with to get permission? If I have CDs, can I sell them?

Community Answer

Check with City Hall or call the police department and ask them about the laws. If you're playing on privately owned property (like in front a store or something) you'd want to ask the manager/owner. As long as you're permitted to play, most likely selling the CDs will also be fine, but you should ask just to be sure.

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Question

What music should a musician play on the street?

Community Answer

Playing original music is best. You will find that if you play cover tunes, you will get a bunch of people asking this question: "Hey, do you know any Spice Girls?" Nothing makes a street show come to a quicker screeching halt then to have people come up asking for music. If you are playing your own music, it happens less and you have a better reason to excuse yourself from playing something else. Unless you only know covers, try playing the music that you play at home in your living room.

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Question

Can I play Christian music on the street?

Community Answer

Yes, you can.

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Question

How old do I have to be to be a street musician?

Community Answer

There is no mimimum or maximum age. You just need to be able to sing/play an instrument.

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Question

What age do you have to be to start performing in public?

Community Answer

Technically, it doesn't matter. However, if you're under 18, be sure to ask permission from an adult. Different places have different working ages, and this is one good way to decide when you (or your child) is old enough to start.

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Question

How much would I make per hour playing violin in a very busy public space?

justice tucker

Community Answer

The amount of money you make is very dependent on the demographic you are playing to, as well as your choice of music and skill level on the violin. I have had days where I will play for 6 hours and only make $20, I've had days where I've made $600 by noon (this is as rare as winning the lottery, though). It just depends, find an area with a concentration of people who enjoy the type of music you play, and if you don't know, just play everywhere and see what sticks.

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Question

Do I need a permit to busk in California?

Community Answer

Rules regarding this vary from community to community. Your best bet is to contact the city or town hall where you plan to busk and ask them.

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Question

Can I pass out Christian facts on the street?

Community Answer

Yes, you can.

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Question

How would I power an amp for an electric guitar to play on the street?

Community Answer

You could use a portable, battery-powered amp.

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Question

How do I find out if I need a permit to play music in the street in my state and city?

Community Answer

Look on your city/state’s website if they have one. If not check in with your local municipality or council office and someone there will be able to tell you what's needed.

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