Gargoyle, there's a major qualitative difference between a busker and a panhandler (and the various other epithets you list above). The busker offers entertainment to any and all who pass by. If you are interested in listening to them and if you are so moved, you can toss a voluntary contribution into the hat or open instrument case. If not, just walk on by. This is quite different from having some kid who hangs out on the sidewalk outside a mini-mart accost you, blocking their way and saying "Spare change? Ya got any spare change?"

The busker is offering something of value. You can take it or leave it. The kid outside the mini-mart offers nothing, he just gets in your face and makes a pain in the ass of himself.

Don Firth