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Keep Streets Live Releases New Socially-Distanced Busking Guidance

Keep Streets Live, a not-for-profit company that campaigns to protect public spaces for informal offerings of music and the arts, has released new guidance to help buskers comply with social distancing.

Published: 19 June 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of a keyboard set up by a busker out in a busy open space
Socially distanced busking is one of the ways that the MU envisions a possible return to work for musicians during the Covid-19 recovery phase. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The advice, which can be read on the Keep Streets Live website covers topics from selecting your pitch to collecting cash safely.

Musicians looking at busking as a potential new source of income may also benefit from the general tips Keep Streets Live provides on responsible busking, as well as their answers to Frequently Asked Questions about busking.

The return to work

Socially distanced busking is one of the ways that the MU envisions a possible return to work for musicians during the Covid-19 recovery phase. Our Deputy General Secretary further explored what might be possible as we emerge from this crisis in an earlier blog.

We’ve released our own Health & Safety guidance for those considering possibilities for returning to work in recording studios, live music venues and face-to-face teaching scenarios.

Please remember that any decision about returning to work is one that only you can take. Before doing so you must make sure that you take adequate steps to review any relevant guidance and come to a sensible decision based on your own enquiries, after taking into account your own individual set of circumstances.

At this time little is known definitely about the way coronavirus behaves and given the possible consequences of exposure are so severe, any advice given errs on the side of caution. If you have any specific concerns contact your Regional Office in the first instance.

Write to Rishi

Although a possible return to work could provide relief for some musicians, Government support continues to be vital for the survival of the music industry.

We must make sure that no musicians are left to fall through the cracks. Ask the Chancellor Rishi Sunak to ensure no musician is left behind.

You can use our template letter if you're not sure what to say. Remember to include how you are affected too. Personal stories make all the difference.

Write to Rishi now, see our advice on how.

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