I have been busking for at least 10 yrs.Never have I thought or felt that I was begging. Yes people put money in my open case but they often say thank you for makinging there day more pleasant and memorable. How about the hugs and the kiss on the cheek by the young women . Why did the owner of the jewelry store pay me to play in front of his store if he thought I was begging?
For the past year I have been receiving pay from the owner of an Italian resturant (pizza etc}to play in his store . He pays me and I also have an open case for donations. Is this still begging? I thinkk not. In the end it matters not for I enjoy doing it very much.