busking (licenses, etc)

[Jazzophone]

Does anyone do the street performance thing? What sort of response have you gotten? (I'm thinking of going solo for a while just to try it out.)

One question. If any of you live in Calgary or surrounds (I know there aren't many of us) - would you happen to know if it's part of the City to play down in Fish Creek Park at the pavilion near the coffee shop -- Annie's -- or if you'd have to ask the owners of the store?

Thanks in advance.

[kcp]

Hey Jazzophone,

I been playing the streets in Montreal for the past 10 years. Well now even though I say that I no longer do so, I still go out there every now and then when I have the time... I can't resist!!

Legislations: Every city / municipality have it's own. Call city hall and ask.

Most places don't even have legal issues concerning street playing. Meaning there is nothing that says it's legal to play on the streets, but nothing that says it's illegal either. However some of these places kind of tolerate street players. Meaning; if you play well and if you are not a trouble maker, they'll let you play. If it's the other way around well, then you better practice taking appart your saxophone, putting it in the case at lightning speed, and run. I hope for you that it's not a baritone you got :lol:

Most Canadian major cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouvert, etc, have legislated street performing. That is a good thing and a bad thing... depending on how you want to look at it. Anyway, each cities has it's own set of rules concerning street performing. For someone who's beginning to play on the streets, if there is a permit in Calgary, I strongly recommend that you get it, as it should help keep you out of trouble.

To give you an example, in Montreal the street permit this year costs 230$CDN. That may seem expensive but I can assure you that anyone who's willing to work hard, can earn back that 230$ in no time, or at least before the summer is over, depending on your skills.

You may find it difficult to earn some money in the beginning, but don't blame yourself. Street playing is not just about how well you can play, but it's also about how good you know the city that you play in. With time and experience you'll get the feel of the city beat and you'll know when to play, where, what to play, on what side of the street and when the permit inspectors are doing their run in a given area so you can play at forbidden spots without getting caught 8)

Get aquainted with local street performers, be cool with them. Some of these guys can be real protective of their turf. Espescially around newcomers. And since you are a sax player well, heheheheh... well let's just say that they have a better reason to worry about you more than you should worry about them 8) The only thing you have to worry about are other street saxers. But if you make friends with them, you'll be alright, and might even learn some playing tips from them.

Sorry for the long post. That's what happens when I get started on that. Hope that helps answer your question.

All the best from one street honker to another 8)

[Lowell]

I believe the City Of Calgary does require a busking permit if you are taking a collection. Call city hall and check it out at the permits and licenses desk. If nobody complains, you will probably be left alone.

[Lowell]

I checked the City of Calgary website ( www.calgary.ca and use the search function in the top right corner ) and the busking information indicates you must get a busking permit from the property owner or their business association. For example, the Eau Claire Market will assess your act and if acceptable will sell you a $40 busking permit. The Stephen Avenue Mall ( Via The Downtown Business Revitalization Zone ) allows busking with the same restrictions as the Eau Claire Market. There is a blanket permit avaiable if you want to play at various places in the prime locations. Thus if you are playing in front of Annie's store with Annie's permission, you should be safe. Since it is in Fish Creek park, you should still consult the city.

[colibri]

Why bother getting a permit? If cops/securities ask you to leave, then go to a different place. They won't arrest you for not having a permit. Most of them won't even bother checking you.

[kcp]

Why bother getting a permit? If cops/securities ask you to leave, then go to a different place...

Well actually, cops and security shouldn't have to tell you to leave if you have the permit, unless you are disturbing the public peace or for safety reasons.

...They won't arrest you for not having a permit. Most of them won't even bother checking you.

I dunno about Calgary, I do know some street musicians who have done some time (1 week) for repetitively playing without a permit near residential areas.

[BruceW]

This has been a great thread talking about busking and associated licenses which may or may not be required.

What I'd like to know is how much cold, hard cash a busker can make. I've heard anywhere from $20 in a day to $20 in less than an hour. Anyone bold enough to tempt the IRS (and Revenue Canada) and share what kind of money can be made?