Dear Network Rail
Dear Network Rail
Recently my friend and I decided to play some music outside Euston Station. As I’m sure you’ll agree, the cafes in the courtyard and continuous stream of foot traffic create a buzzing, lively atmosphere; I’d been there before and wanted to go back. I’m a musician, and I couldn’t help but think it would make a perfect venue, so I asked my friend and we agreed to give it a go. We carefully avoided “busking” by removing the guitar cases and hats from view, and simply improvised through a number of cover songs and originals, to the apparent delight of the public. The response was highly encouraging; people would stop and listen while waiting for their friends and family to arrive, passers-by would slow down and smile - there was nothing negative about the whole experience. We played for almost two hours, until just as we were winding down, we were politely asked by two policemen to stop playing. As it wasn’t an official “busking” location, no-one could play music in that area, paid or otherwise. Of course we complied, but it certainly raised the question - “What can and can’t you do in public?”. Understandably if we were profiting from it, we’d be taking advantage of the station/courtyard for income, and I’m sure you’d want to know about it. But if we are doing more good than harm, and bringing something new and fresh to the station entrance, would you forbid it? In fact, what’s to stop you setting up an official busking stand, like on the underground? I know which I’d rather play at, and for me personally I’m a lot more likely to stop, listen and donate if I’m not rushing to catch the Edgware train or just focussed on getting outside. Please give it some thought, as I feel like it’s got a lot of potential.
Kind regards
Stephen Hay
Musician