Buskers and their art-form can be interpreted in many diverse ways: some people may consider it as an under-represented genre of music while others relate it to mere panhandling. During our observations at the various Edmonton LRT stations, the former viewpoint was more commonly observed. Nevertheless, by observing viewers position before, during and after listening to the busker, one can notice that there was a variety of responses which are both engaging and alienating.
Similar to that of elevator music, most patrons would simply disregard the presence of the busker performance upon their approach; majority of viewers neither avoid nor approach the buskers but simply ignore them as if they are absent. This behavior, by the viewer, is also consistent during and after they pass the busker. However, similar to how some people actively listen to and appreciate elevator music, there are individuals who also actively respond to buskers. The variety of responses depicts the apparent yet different social status for those who interact with the buskers. Usually those with children, those dressed casually, and the elderly who would turn their attention towards the performers (Green-Bordered Video). On the other hand, most people who were professionally dressed seemed to completely ignore the buskers (Orange-Bordered Video). The majority of both these groups did not consciously alter their walking path in response to the presence of the busker: they were neither captivated nor disgusted. In addition to these observations, the flow of the viewers religiously followed the North American traffic directions. These pedestrians always walk on the right side of the corridor (Blue-Bordered Video).
Edmonton LRT Buskers - "High" or "Low Culture"
The few audience members that gave gratuities to the LRT buskers did it as a passing motion. Of those who gave change, the professionally dressed viewers did not seem to particularly appreciate their performance but donated in similar fashion to that of a panhandler: they were quick, did not engage in conversation, and tended to avoid eye contact with the busker. It appeared as if the professionals did not want to taint their portrayed “high culture” by associating with the apparent “low culture” of the busker. However, those who gave money that were dressed casually or part of the elderly populous acted more positively to the busker’s performance. This was presented in eye contact and may be furthermore accompanied by a fleeting smile. On very rare occasions, few of these donating viewers will actually engage in conversation with the busker (Red-Bordered Video). Likewise, it appears that individuals, juxtaposed with groups of people, are more likely to give change to the buskers. These people fear the embarrassment and the prospect of being ridiculed by their fellow co-workers, friends or acquaintances in associating with a “low” form of culture. Consequently, people in groups will usually respond in groups. Someone who encourages listening will cause the group to respond similarly with positive responses. On the other hand, someone who discourages listening will cause the group they are in to establish buskers as "low culture", exemplified by negative responses. This "low culture" is associated with the bad taste identified by individuals of "high culture"(Sturken and Cartwright 2009).
About Me
- EDBKA
- Creators of EDBKA are anonymous individuals interested in the reception of the Edmonton street culture of LRT busking. We enjoy exploring the various other venues that support local artists, long elevator rides in our apartment and suntanning.