I spent last weekend busking in Ottawa's Byward Market, and have a few comments to add:

1. Re: presenting yourself in a way to get tips: I have a couple of gimmicks in order to attract attention - a ribbon of Cape Breton tartan hanging from my fiddlehead, and a sign saying thank you in Irish and Scots Gaelic. It's not uncommon for me to see people focussing on or pointing out one of these, and occasionally people talk to me about them; I have no doubt that they've earned me some money.

2. I saw another busker, sort of an Elvis impersonator, singing with a a microphone and a recorded (and also amplified) accompaniment. He was VERY loud; you could hear him for two blocks either way up busy Rideau St., and he was doing his thing where 20 different buses have stops - huge captive audience, and no possibility for anyone else to busk anywhere near. I really thought this was inappropriate. Maybe playing acoustically should be unregulated, but you should need a licence to plug in? Of course, I've also seen people who used amplification and recorded accompaniments with manners and skill...

3. I saw a young guy, somewhat scruffy in appearance, holding a cardboard sign: "KICK A PUNK - $1".

Marion (shocked): Do people actually take you up on that?

Guy: Oh yeah. I've had broken ribs twice, and a concussion, in the last three months. But it's a living... I'm not a bum...

Marion: Wouldn't it be easier to play an instrument or learn to juggle or fold balloons or something?

Guy: Oh, I COULD play an instrument, I've tried that, but you need a permit I've had cops come around with big sticks.

Marion: You don't need a permit here. I've had cops walk by me.

Guy: That's because you're a girl.

I really hope this guy was bullshitting me...

Marion