If you can play the guitar and sing discreetly, or can play some other instrument, why not become a street musician? It is a way to earn some money. It would also help you hone your musical skills. Bring out the rock star in you.
Steps
Step 1. Find a place to play
Although the term "street musician" implies playing on or near a street, avoid it if you can, unless you want to play the drum or drums. The noise from cars tends to drown out the acoustic music, but if there are many passersby on the pavement, it might be worth a try. Go to markets, squares or other open areas, art festivals or other events where the public might enjoy your music in the background. In general, the greater the turnout of passers-by, the better the chances, but if a place is too crowded and it is difficult to find a place to play, it is better to continue the search for open places.
Step 2. Dress in tune with your music
This is an effective way to attract a few spectators. It is also a way of declaring that you are a serious musician. Musicians who add performances to their music, such as dancing, percussion, or having a drummer attached to their foot, make their show more interesting.
Step 3. Ask for permission to ring if you don't want to be insulted by the shopkeepers, or worse, chased away by the police
In the USA, and many other countries, you are free to occupy public land and play, just don't block passers-by or disturb. You must ask for permission if you decide to use an amplifier. In Italy, it depends on the municipality you want to play in (usually you need a permit). The worst thing that could happen to you while playing is someone asking you to leave.
Step 4. Make your music heard
Stand up if possible. Playing or singing while standing amplifies the sound. If you sit or play too softly, people won't hear you well. Either way, if you'd rather sit down, do it. Remember that strumming is better than playing with your fingers on the guitar.
Step 5. Behave politely if someone asks you to leave
You smile. Maybe they can suggest better places to play. Usually, the police and shopkeepers politely ask you to leave, and you have to be nice too.
Step 6. Collect tips
Remember to bring a hat to collect tips. You can also open the guitar case and put it in front of you. People don't tip if they don't know where to put them. When someone leaves you a tip, thank you with a smile or a gesture, but keep playing.
Step 7. Don't play too close to other musicians
Give them their own acoustic space. If you are stuck to each other, you will not gain anything. In certain situations there are too many musicians in the same square, and so they have to take turns to play.
Step 8. Smile
A grumpy attitude turns listeners away. Don't be discouraged if you make next to nothing. Try to change the area, or wait for more favorable days. Being a street musician can be very frustrating, but it can also be very rewarding, especially musically.
Advice
- Put some coins and / or small bills in the hat or guitar case. This will attract the attention of passersby and indicate where to put tips. If you don't want loose change, quickly remove it from the container - this should increase your income, as more people will leave you with bills. If you want to be smart, throw in a couple of 5 or 10 euro bills, to make people believe that other people have been generous, and so should those present!
- If you have your own CD, bring copies to sell. Have them in plain sight with the price. You probably won't make big sales, but it's still a good way to increase revenue and get your music known. Also for the sale of CDs you will need to inquire about permits.
- Acoustic instruments offer more flexibility as to where and when to play because they do not require the use of electricity.
- Expect requests. People requesting songs can be annoying, especially if you play your original songs, but they usually pay. Learn a few famous songs and if you can't play a request, play a similar one or by the same artist.
- It is a good idea to move while playing, a little or a lot, but in an expressive and harmonious way, without becoming inappropriate. If you play and sing with your heart, you will be more successful. It can help you forget you're there for money or attention, and sound like you're just doing it for the fun of it. On the contrary, it could be the audience that inspires and fosters your performance.
- A nice costume will help you attract attention and give more meaning to your performance. Wear strange hats or other clothing that can attract the attention of passers-by.
- Wear fancy clothing! People will stop and look at you, wondering why you are dressed like this, they will give you more money because it adds interest to your performance.
- Try to avoid areas where there are many beggars. These areas are usually very busy, but often people are also annoyed about being asked for money all the time and you probably won't have much of a chance.
- Some municipalities require a license. Find out in the municipal offices.
- Do not sit down. Never. People will think you are a beggar and will give you less money.
