The Magic of Busking
Transforming Pittsburgh's Streets into Stages
Today, I’m excited to share a post written by Cycle Forward’s summer intern, Dana Fishkin. She is a senior Urban Studies major at the University of Pittsburgh and has been wonderful to work with. When she mentioned that she’s been researching busking’s impact on public spaces, I knew we needed to share some of what she’s learned with you! While Dana’s geographic focus in on Pittsburgh, I think you’ll find the topic relevant to your community as well.
The timing of this post is fitting for me personally, as I’ve been reading Eric Klinenberg’s Palaces for the People. Klinenberg asserts that social infrastructure such as libraries, community centers, parks, and public squares can fight inequality, polarization, and the decline of civic life. Street performances and other forms of entertainment make these spaces more lively and compelling, greatly contributing to our communities. Please continue reading for Dana’s take on the magic of busking!
The Magic of Busking: Transforming Pittsburgh’s Streets into Stages
By Dana Fishkin
Have you ever been captivated by a street performer’s song or trick while walking down a busy street? That's busking – a lively tradition that turns everyday urban spaces into vibrant stages. Busking is street performance in public spaces, often for tips. Through my research, I’ve discovered that busking isn’t just entertainment; it’s a cornerstone of city life that brings people together and adds a unique charm to our streets.
I took an Urban Research class at the University of Pittsburgh this past spring, in which I focused my efforts on learning about busking and how it can positively impact the spaces, communities, and cities in which it takes place.
Busking is an ancient form of expression that allows artists to share their talents, gain feedback, and earn some cash. Unlike other performance venues, busking is democratic because there is no ticket needed, no assigned seats – just a spontaneous connection between performer and audience.
Since busking thrives on spontaneity, it is vulnerable to city elements and disruptions. Educating urban planners and policymakers about the benefits of busking can help protect and promote this art form. Despite its risks, the spontaneous nature of busking is what makes it special – it transforms the monotony of urban life into a dynamic, temporary theater.
Busking does more than entertain; it fosters community and culture. When a busker starts playing, people gather, strangers share a moment, conversations start, and suddenly, the street feels alive. This infusion of creativity and social interaction revitalizes public spaces, making them more inviting, which in turn, makes people feel safe and connected and enhances the overall perception of the environment.
Studies have shown that areas with vibrant street performances feel more welcoming and lively, driving both social and economic benefits for nearby businesses. The sense of place created by busking is crucial for a city's growth, boosting the local economy and encouraging pedestrians to actively engage in city life. When people feel connected to a space, they are more likely to invest their time and resources into it. A lively busking scene can make a city feel more inclusive, fostering a sense of belonging among residents and visitors alike.
As a student of Urban Studies, I plan to further my research by focusing on how different public spaces, specifically in Pittsburgh, affect pedestrian engagement with buskers. It will aim to identify which environments – like market squares, parks, and transit stations – are most conducive to positive audience responses. High levels of engagement with buskers suggest a strong sense of place and community, contributing to the city’s growth.
Understanding the best spots for busking in Pittsburgh can help future buskers choose their stages wisely, maximizing their impact on the city. Engaged audiences mean a vibrant, dynamic urban life, where creativity and community flourish. By identifying the characteristics of spaces that foster these connections, we can support buskers in making Pittsburgh’s streets more alive and enjoyable.
So, next time you see a busker, take a moment to pause and enjoy and leave a tip if you can. You’ll not only be entertained but also become part of a beautiful urban tapestry that makes your city special.
Relevant Resources:
Academic Articles on Busking:
Effect of Street Performance (Busking) on the Environmental Perception of Public Space
Busking: analysis of its regulation and business models in Europe
About Dana
Dana is currently pursuing a degree in Urban Studies with a minor in Public Service and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems at the University of Pittsburgh. She has interned at Repair The World, a national non-profit organization dedicated to mobilizing acts of service. She also worked with the Aleph Institute, which supports incarcerated members of the local Jewish community in the Pittsburgh area.
Trail Towns 101: Sign up by 8/31 for Discounted Rate
Michele and I are inching closer to hosting the first ever Trail Towns 101 course! While the course will be held in February, we’re busy working on content, including a pre-course “accelerator” option that will take place this fall. You’ll want to sign up by August 31 to take advantage of early registration, and by September 27 to participate in the accelerator. Here’s a bit more on the course: w
We are offering three 2-hour live video conference sessions plus one-on-one coaching. Trail Towns 101 will help you take the next steps toward unlocking the full potential of your local trails. Use code CycleForward for 10% off the cost of the course on top of the 20% early registration discount!
Gratitude Notes
This is the part of the post where I normally express whatever gratitude I’m feeling in the moment. Instead, here’s a note of gratitude from Dana:
I am incredibly thankful for the vibrant busking community and the dedicated individuals who bring our streets to life with their art. Their creativity, passion, drive, and dedication to pursue their talents inspire me. The positive impact they have on our city's culture and economy is truly remarkable. I am also grateful to have an academic space at the University of Pittsburgh which allows me to pursue my interests in learning about street art and artists. Additionally, I am grateful to have a space at Cycle Forward for giving me a place to bring what I have learned in my academic endeavors into professional practice.
The walk across the Roberto Clemente Bridge in Pittsburgh after a ball game wouldn’t be the same without the busker riffing on the saxophone!