BEGINNER BUSKERS INFO PACK

Performance is such a key part of developing as a musician. That's why Monster Music is passionate about providing our students with as many performance opportunities as we can! Busking is an awesome "extra" that we offer our students alongside their weekly lessons and annual concerts.

WHAT IS “BEGINNER BUSKERS” AND WHO IS IT FOR?

Beginner Buskers is for any Monster Music student who plays guitar, keyboard, ukulele, or sings and wants to give busking a go. (Drummers, flick us a message, and we'll see if we can make it work!)

It’s the perfect starting point for kids who have never busked before or have only tried it a little. Unlike our regular Buskers Club for more experienced kids, Beginner Buskers is like a gateway into that world. The sessions are short and sweet - just 15 minutes - where kids can play one or two songs, no pressure, just fun!

No performance experience is required, and a Monster Music tutor will be there to guide them every step of the way. If your child is curious about busking, this is the place to start!

  • Step 1 - Fill out this form.

    This will out you on our mailing list so we can keep you in the loop.

    Step 2 - Wait for an email

    Once we have booked in the busking days, we will send you an email with a booking form. This will allow you to book a practical busking slot at a location near you.

    Step 3 - Practice

    Practice as much as you can in the lead up to your busking gig!

    Step 4 - Go busking!

  • You just need to be able to play a song or two! You want to have this sounding as good as possible, however it doesn’t need to be perfect. The slots are 15 minutes long, but you don’t need to play the whole time if you don’t want to. A Monster Music Tutor will be there on the day to help you. If you are unsure what song to play, maybe you could ask your tutor for some advice?

  • These sessions are ideal for guitarists, keyboardists, ukuleleists and vocalists. If you are a drummer and would like to take part, this can be a little tricky, however send us an email to office@monstermusic.nz and we will see what we can work out!

  • Yes! You get to keep it all, woo hoo!

  • Beginner Buskers sessions are generally held at local supermarkets. Here are some common busking locations that we book….

    • Bishopdale New World

    • St Martins New World

    • Prestons New World

    • Ballantynes (CBD)

    • Riverside Market (CBD)

    Once you are on our mailing list, we will let you know what locations/days are coming up.

  • Just fill in this form and you will then be on our mailing list so we can keep you in the loop with what sessions are coming up!

  • We split a 2 hour slot into eight 15 minute slots. You will turn up slightly before your 15 minute slot begins get ready.

    A Monster Music tutor will be there on the day and will help you get in tune, get your music ready, and make sure that everything is ready to rock!

    You will play your busking set… If you need any help, the Monster Music tutor will be able to assist where needed!

  • Yes! Please bring your own instruments.

  • No way! You can take the slots or leave them. We will send them out to you so that you are able to book suitable days and locations. There is never any pressure!

  • No, you don’t need to sing! However we highly recommend giving it a go. Being able to sing and play confidently is such a cool skill to have in your bag of tricks. However there is no pressure (Top Secret Tip - Buskers that sing usually make more money!)

  • This won’t happen! But if anyone does laugh at you, the Monster Music tutor involved will chase them down the street and get the expelled from their school.

Busking tips and tricks

Practice!

Choose one or two songs and practice the as much as you can in the lead up to your first busking session. If you are struggling with something, make sure you ask your tutor for some advice. Don’t forget, you are able to message them on opus so that they know how to support you in your next lesson!

There are no rules.

The best performances are the ones where both you and your audience are on the edge of your seats, wondering what’s coming next. Sing that bridge a little differently, make up a third verse on the fly, or throw in an unexpected twist. Sure, being well-rehearsed is important, but adding a bit of spontaneity keeps things exciting and makes for an unforgettable street music vibe.

Be prepared.

  • Know Your Songs – Decide which songs you’re going to play ahead of time, so you’re not scrambling on the spot.

  • Sheet Music Handy – If you need it, make sure you’ve got your sheet music ready and easy to read.

  • Be Punctual – Arrive on time so you can set up and get comfortable before you start playing.

Bring a drink.

Singing and playing can be surprisingly dehydrating! Make sure you are well stocked up on water for your busking performance!

You CAN repeat songs if you need to.

If you want to go busking, but don't quite have enough songs, repeating a few of your favourites could be a good idea for the first couple of busks. This can be effective at busking spots such as markets where people walk past and will more than likely not pass again.

WHY BUSK?

Confidence

Performing in front of people can be scary! Busking is a great way to gain some confidence on their instrument. Often our students are scared by the thought of busking, but after they experience it, they are excited to try it again!

Direction

Students can lack motivation in practicing their instrument if they don't have something to work towards. Having a goal like busking, is a practical motivator to get kids working hard on their instrument

Practice

Practicing at home is obviously very important! Busking takes that a step further and gives our students a chance to "practice" (Busk) for a solid amount of time.... With a little added pressure! As tutors, we notice a MASSIVE improvement in our students abilities after they take on the challenge of busking.

Value of money

How many times do we tell our children that ‘money doesn’t grow on trees’? This is a great opportunity to begin to teach children the value of earning money, responsibility and practicing gratitude. What an awesome way to save up for that sweet new electric guitar/drum kit that they have constantly been nagging for!