In some cities in Canada, busking is artfully encouraged and not considered panhandling. In some cities, for example, in parks, near transit, the music and performances can be enjoyed by many, and clearly defined by the city posting their BUSKING rules. In Toronto, buskers can fill out a permit application. In Calgary they are a little more anal, but at least they have a Busker By-Law.
In Winnipeg last week, we opted to hand out 3 tickets to local busker Eric Pyle, for singing near the arena during a Jets game. It flies in the face of common sense. Kinda of like the fact we have NO formal busking policy, other than we consider it panhandling.
Maybe its because I am a PT musician. Maybe I don’t know the Winnipeg Police Cadets side of the story (please do tell). Maybe it is because Eric isn’t exactly a clean cut, non-smoking kinda guy.
OR
MAYBE, just MAYBE busking is freaking not panhandling. The words singing, playing guitar, public performance nor the word busking or busker are anywhere to be found in the City of Winnipeg Panhandling by-law.
Pure personal opinion, but I would love to see Winnipeg have a thriving downtown, and be a progressive enough city to create the most liberal busking rules in Canada. Create a busking by-law that encourages public performance, and brings music, magic, and awe inspiring art to our citizens. But hey… thats just me!
Nuff said. Although, I would love to hear an opposing view point. That always makes my day 🙂
#supportlocalmusic
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