Music has become the livelihood for Todd Anderson, after he was laid off earlier this year from his job as a machinist.
Anderson, 37, an on-and-off resident of Calgary for 12 years, now picks his acoustic guitar on Stephen Avenue as a busker, and he hopes the city continues to recognize the cultural and artistic significance street musicians have in the downtown core.
“If you’ve got something to offer, why not let people see it? I don’t see why you should have a permit to play music anywhere, if it’s on your own time,” he said.
The city has organized a forum Nov. 2 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the auditorium in Bankers Hall where buskers will be able to share their views and make recommendations on city policy.
“We’re trying to find the right balance between giving performers the environment they want to showcase their art and entertain the public while ensuring some level of control over noise levels and safety,” said Brian Dorscht, an event co-ordinator with the city.
Anderson believes the forum is a good idea.
“I think it’s probably the only way you can go about it — otherwise it’s just going to be the bylaw cops against us,” he said.
