Busking in Nanaimo

[treblemaker]

At this time last year, this blog site was a beehive of activity filled with constant complaints. This year---nothing. For better or worse, this has been a very peaceful busking summer, and I hope it stays that way. Removing the every other day obstacle plus the rigid time schedules were the smartest moves the city made. Those steps have more than made up for the loss of the Pacifica condos spot. It will never be like the Victoria or Vancouver busking scene (because the tourist base along with the city size is much smaller than the other 2 places), but it doesn't have to be. Ironically, I personally do better when the harbour is not that crowded. A jammed harbour makes it easier for the crowd to just walk by, so in order to really attract the crowd to hang around to listen, you'd better have something to offer. Otherwise, hi, everybody. See you down there once in a while.

[treblemaker]

My busking season has come to an end this Thanksgiving Day. The rains are on the way in about 3 to 4 days, so enjoy the good weather while it's still here. As for me, I have other things to do that take priority, and by the time I'm done, it will be too chilly and wet for me to bring my keyboard and amp out.

I would like to thank everybody who was kind enough to buy one of my CD's, and/or who were kind enough to throw me a tip as you walked by or sat down to watch me play. I had a wonderful season, almost 60% better than last year, and not only did I meet new friends, but I also saw so many familiar faces, it was just like being at home. As a matter of fact, I AM home. I will be back to busk next May, with a brand new CD for sale. I hope you will continue to support my busking efforts during the next year as you have this year. During the winter I'll still be playing at my usual indoor locations, and I'll be working on other projects.

This was a very peaceful season, with hardly any complaints from either buskers or the general public. The few wrinkles in the bylaws that were ironed out worked to perfection this year. I wouldn't busk anywhere else---why go to Victoria or Vancouver? I live 5 minutes from the harbour; time is the most precious commodity. Everything is made to order for me.

Just a quick note to anyone in the general public who reads this blog---busking is a TOUGH way to make extra money, because we are dependent on your generosity. Nothing is guaranteed. We're out there 2 hours straight playing for your enjoyment---and ours. If you think busking is panhandling, YOU try it!! I have tremendous respect for all the buskers who put it out there everyday, especially those who do it year round. I consider many of them my dear friends. Playing music is more than just a business, or a job---for some of us, like me, it is a calling. Some of us play because we HAVE to, even when we don't want to. I'll tell you something else. When the economy is as tough as it is today, with so many people nervous and scared for their own survival, I thank the Lord above that I am a musical artist able to bring a little joy into the lives of people who really need it. Take care.

[queen of the waterfront]

Well said Treblemaker! I missed most of the busking season this summer in Nanaimo as my daughter was gravely ill in Vancouver. I had a great time listening to you this September while i waited for a spot. I love hearing artists who take their craft seriously and put on a show! I think this winter will be harder than other years for buskers in Nanaimo. I am so grateful to have friends, and most especially my family helping me out. This year I will busk when I need to get out, and not because I have to. Nothing harder than playing literally for your supper. I enjoyed hearing the Big Mess this summer, and playing with some cool people in Vancouver.

[All Ages Music Concerts]

Hoping for alot of great weather days for the buskers in 2013. It has all been said above in the last two posts. Every town needs good buskers; they definitely add to the attraction of the city. We talk about having things for the tourist to remember Nanaimo; well this is part of it. They count and give so much of their time; for so little in return on alot of days. I wish them all the best in the spring, summer and fall for their playing time.

Many of them have great talent and hopefully one day they will be truly recognized for this.

[treblemaker]

Well, everyone, it's that time of year. Off to an early start, due to some unexpected nice weather. Nice to see my local friends coming out to the harbour. BTW, is it true that the proposed leasing agreement of the harbour has been cancelled? I sure hope so!! The voices of all the locals are finally counting for something!!

I hope to have a new CD by Canada Day, otherwise, my regular CD's are still being printed on demand. Hope to see one and all out there, enjoying the number one attraction of the city. It's the best way I can think of to spend the day---with a cup of coffee by my feet, playing your favorite tunes. Let's have a great summer!!