The Complete Guide to Street Performances: From Obtaining Permits and Choosing a Location to Equipment, Tips, and Troubleshooting

1. What is a street performance/live music performance?

Street performances (or street concerts) are musical activities where musicians perform instruments or sing for passersby in public outdoor spaces such as streets, train station plazas, parks, and shopping districts. The biggest advantage is that, unlike live music venues, you don't need to secure a performance slot from an organizer; you can start today with just your equipment and a little courage. In addition to enjoying the performance itself, the experience of delivering your music to complete strangers and receiving their reactions on the spot brings a completely different sense of tension and satisfaction compared to studio practice or playing with other bands in a live music venue.

It should be noted that the two terms "rojou live" and "street live" are basically used to refer to the same activity. There are no strict rules for distinguishing between them, but "rojou live" is a term that has been used in Japanese for a long time and is often used in the context of singer-songwriters or band performances in front of train stations or in shopping districts. On the other hand, "street live" is a katakana word derived from the English "street live" and tends to be preferred among SNS, music media, and younger generations. It is sometimes used with almost the same meaning as "busking" (an English term that refers to street performances in general) used overseas. In this article, both terms will be treated as referring to the same activity, and from now on, the term "rojou live" will be used consistently in the explanation.

Street performance activities in general are sometimes collectively referred to as "street performances," and their history and cultural significance are also touched upon in explanations of street performances . Street performances, as a branch of street performances or as an independent form of musical activity, are a long-standing cultural tradition in the Japanese music scene throughout Japan. While they can be performed by bands, many people start easily as soloists or duos, making street performances a relatively low-barrier entry point for those who want to start their first band. For those who haven't formed a band yet or are looking for bandmates, it's recommended to use member recruitment services like Membo while preparing.

This article provides a step-by-step guide to the fundamental knowledge you need to continue street performances safely and responsibly, covering everything from basic laws and regulations, choosing a location, obtaining permits, necessary equipment, practical aspects of tipping and merchandise sales, troubleshooting, and a roadmap for taking your first steps. Having personally witnessed and heard numerous stories from bands and solo musicians who have continued street performances, I've found that they all share the common trait of "knowing the rules and continuing while enjoying themselves." I hope this article will help you take that first step.

The relationship between continuing to perform street live shows and gaining recognition and attracting an audience.

While there's no definitive statistical data to support the question of how many street performances are needed to increase recognition and attract an audience, the experience of artists and bands who have consistently performed on the streets suggests that consistently playing in the same location and at the same time makes a stronger impression on passersby, leading to repeat customers and increased social media sharing. The idea is that building a reputation of "I can hear them again if I go to that place" is more likely to lead to acquiring a loyal fanbase than a one-off performance. Of course, other factors such as the performance location, songs, and performance quality also significantly influence recognition, so frequency isn't the only factor. Nevertheless, if you're positioning street performances not as a one-off event but as a serious platform for self-promotion, viewing them as a continuous activity rather than a one-off is helpful. Combining this with the communication strategies introduced in our band's social media usage tips will make it easier to leverage street performance opportunities for greater recognition.

In fact, many artists have become widely known through their activities as street performers and street musicians. The folk duo "Yuzu" continued to perform street live shows in front of Yokohama Matsuzakaya in Isezakicho, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, after their formation. Initially, they attracted very few people, but after about a year of performing, they gradually gained a loyal fanbase. It is said that on August 30, 1998, their last day as street performers, approximately 7,500 people gathered despite the adverse conditions of a typhoon. Although this event occurred after their major debut, it is still widely talked about today as the culmination of their steady efforts to increase their fanbase through diligent street performances. Similarly, the duo "Kobukuro" met when Kentaro Obuchi was performing street live shows separately in the Sakai Higashi Ginza shopping district in Osaka, and Shunsuke Kuroda was performing as a street musician. It is known that they caught the attention of music industry professionals through their street live performances around Hikkakebashi in Osaka. In both cases, it can be said that continuous activities in the same location led to significant breakthroughs later on.

Of course, these are exceptional success stories, and not everyone will achieve the same results by continuing to perform on the streets. However, some common ways for beginner bands to use street performances to increase their visibility include: ① consistently performing in the same location, on the same day and time, establishing it as a "fixed point"; ② filming their performances with smartphones and posting them on social media to connect the reactions on the street to online dissemination; and ③ displaying QR codes or social media accounts to create a pathway for people who listened on the spot to follow them afterward. Combined with the idea that "consistency makes things more memorable," as mentioned in the statistics section above, positioning street performances as an activity to be accumulated rather than a one-off event seems to be a shortcut to increasing visibility.

2. Advantages and Disadvantages

Before starting a street performance, it's important to calmly consider both the advantages and disadvantages.

The cost advantages are particularly significant, and as mentioned in the complete guide to the costs of band activities , studio fees and venue quotas make up a large portion of band operating expenses. Street performances can be seen as a way to gain performance experience while keeping these fixed costs down. On the other hand, for bands whose members are working professionals and have difficulty managing their time, as described in the complete guide to balancing band activities and full-time jobs , street performances, where you "just go to a fixed place at a fixed time," are a good fit in terms of ease of scheduling.

One significant drawback is the uncertainty in terms of attracting an audience. Pre-show promotion, as explained in the complete guide to live performance announcements and audience building, is less effective, and everything depends on the reactions of those present. This is why strategies such as tipping and social media promotion, which will be discussed later, become crucial. If you feel uneasy about standing on the street alone, you can also consider finding members to work with you through Membo before taking on the challenge.

Comparing the differences between street performances and live music venue appearances.

Many people wonder whether they should start with street performances or playing in live music venues. What is booking? Let's compare it to playing in live music venues, which is discussed in the section on how to perform in live music venues and the performance quotas, and clarify the differences from four perspectives.

Neither is inherently superior; street performances offer the "chance encounters with a large, unspecified audience," while playing in a live music venue provides "intense time spent with an audience gathered specifically for the music," each possessing its own unique value. In fact, many bands gain experience through street performances before attempting to book gigs at live music venues, and combining both approaches to broaden their activities is a common approach.

3. Basic Knowledge of Laws and Ordinances | Road Use Permits, Urban Parks Act, and Local Government Ordinances

This chapter provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations concerning street performances vary significantly depending on the location (on a road, in a park, on a sidewalk adjacent to private property, etc.) and the local government. Before actually performing, it is strongly recommended that you check directly with the relevant police station, local government office, or facility manager. The following is merely a general overview to help you understand "what laws and regulations may be relevant."

Performing on the road | Road Traffic Act and Road Use Permit

The Road Traffic Act stipulates that permission from the police chief (road use permit) may be required for activities that use a road for purposes other than its intended use and that may significantly affect general traffic (such as construction, performances, and events). In cases where musical performances are judged to potentially attract people and obstruct traffic, this road use permit may be required. The basic principles of what activities require a permit are published on the National Police Agency's page on road use permits . However, since the actual criteria and application differ from one prefectural police department to another, it is best to check individually with the police station that has jurisdiction over the area where you plan to perform.

Performing in a park | Urban Parks Act and local government usage rules

When performing in an urban park, the Urban Parks Act and the ordinances and usage regulations of the local government that manages the park come into play. In most urban parks, it is common to require prior permission or notification for activities that are for profit, activities that disturb other users, or activities that occupy the facilities. While it is not always the case that performances without permission are uniformly prohibited, the rules vary greatly from park to park, so it is essential to check with the park management office or the local government's park department rather than making assumptions like "it's okay in this park."

Local government ordinances and regulations regarding noise levels to prevent public nuisance.

Many municipalities have ordinances (so-called nuisance prevention ordinances) that regulate excessive noise and disruptive behavior. There are also laws such as the Noise Regulation Act , which aims to regulate noise from factories, businesses, and construction work. Whether street performances are directly subject to these laws depends on the nature of the activity and the municipal ordinances, but you should be aware that "some kind of regulation regarding volume may exist." It is also generally pointed out that extremely rude or violent behavior in public places, or acts that cause significant nuisance to others, may fall under the Minor Offenses Act. In any case, it is not possible to definitively say whether "this act falls under these laws or not" based on this article alone, so if you have any concerns, be sure to consult with your local government or the police in advance.

The option of a system of performers officially recognized by the local government.

In some regions, local governments have established systems to officially certify and manage street performances. A prime example is Tokyo's "Heaven Artist" system, a licensing system that allows performers who pass the screening process to perform in designated locations within Tokyo. Details of the system can be found in the Heaven Artist explanation or on the official website of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Bureau of Citizens' and Cultural Affairs . In areas with such systems, it can be smoother to utilize these official certification systems rather than obtaining individual road use permits. Similar systems may exist in other local governments, so it's a good idea to check in advance whether there is a similar system in the area where you plan to perform. While the specific pass rate and competition ratio for the screening process are not officially published in detail, it is generally said to be a system with a limited number of certified individuals and groups compared to the number of applicants. After passing the document screening and practical examination and receiving certification, you gain the right to perform in designated activity locations within Tokyo, and the title of "Tokyo Metropolitan Government Certified" tends to lead to external credibility, with some saying it has resulted in performance requests from facilities and events. One of the advantages of this official certification system is that it allows you to secure a stable place to operate, which is more reliable than applying for road use permits individually.

While specific scoring criteria and point allocations are generally not made public in these municipal certification programs, it is generally understood that the following aspects are considered based on the publicly available application guidelines and the methods used for practical examinations.

• Performance skill level : Is the instrumental performance and singing at a level suitable for listening in an outdoor public space?
• Originality : Does the performer or band have a unique style that sets them apart from other performers?
• Performance and ability to attract an audience : Does it have the expressive power to stop passersby in their tracks and capture their interest in a short amount of time?
• Is the activity appropriate for a public space ?: Are the volume, performance, and behavior appropriate for a public space where many people come and go?
• Intention and planning for continued activity : Is there a prospect of being able to continue activities responsibly even after certification, rather than just a one-off?

These are merely summaries of commonly cited points, and the actual selection criteria and points emphasized vary depending on the local government and the year. If you are considering applying, be sure to check the latest official application guidelines, and if possible, observe the activities of performers who have already received certification to get a sense of the required standards.

Copyright when performing cover songs

When performing street live shows, if you play not only original songs but also songs by other artists (cover songs), you need to be mindful of copyright. If you perform songs managed by copyright management organizations such as the Japanese Society for Rights of Authors, Composers and Publishers (JASRAC) in a public place for commercial purposes (such as receiving tips or selling merchandise), you may need to pay royalties for the performance rights. If you want to know more about the relationship between cover songs and copyright, we recommend that you also check the basics of cover performances and copyright . When performing while receiving tips, it is important to note that the line between "commercial purposes" and "for profit" is not always clear. Tips are strongly in the nature of voluntary gifts from the audience and differ in nature from performances that involve ticket sales, but it is generally pointed out that if you continuously and consistently receive tips or if you are selling merchandise, it may be judged as being for profit. If you are unsure, it is best to contact the relevant copyright management organization such as JASRAC, explain the details of your activities, and confirm whether permission is required. The licensing process with JASRAC generally involves applying through their official website's application form, specifying the song, location, and frequency of performance, and then paying the fee according to their royalty regulations (the specific procedures and fees vary depending on the type of activity, so be sure to check the latest information on their official website). If you continue to perform cover songs without permission, you generally face the risk of being billed for royalties or asked to stop performing by the copyright holder or management organization. When performing cover songs while primarily focusing on original songs, it is important to be aware of the need for these procedures in advance to avoid trouble.

Again, these are just general guidelines, and the actual rules that apply will vary greatly depending on the local government, location, and nature of the activity. Rather than starting with a vague feeling that "it seems okay," always checking beforehand is the first step to continuing street performances safely and for the long term.

4. How to choose a location | Station area, park, shopping street, plaza

Choosing the right location is crucial to the success of a street performance. Consider multiple factors, not just the amount of foot traffic, but also the ease of obtaining permits, consideration for neighbors, and the ease of setting up equipment.

The option of a station square

Needless to say, the area in front of the station is one of the busiest areas in the world. Because of this, road use permits and permits from station and railway operators are often involved, and activities performed without permission are prone to trouble. If you want to test your skills before aiming to perform at a live music venue, many bands gain experience performing in front of stations, alongside the official live music venue performance routes described in "What is Booking? How to Perform at a Live Music Venue and Performance Quotas."

The option of a park

While parks offer a relatively quiet environment for performing, they are often located near residential areas, making it even more important to consider volume levels and activity times. Some parks have designated areas for musical performances, while others restrict performances altogether, so prior confirmation is essential.

Shopping streets as an option

Shopping streets offer a stable audience due to the consistent number of shoppers, but they often have their own rules set by the shopping street association, requiring consideration to avoid disrupting the operations of individual stores. There are also cases where performance opportunities are provided in conjunction with shopping street events, so building relationships with shopping streets on an ongoing basis can broaden the scope of your activities.

The option of a public square or open space.

Unlike public roads, plazas and open spaces attached to commercial facilities require permission from the facility manager. Some facilities are proactive in attracting music events, and there are even cases where they officially rent out their spaces as performance venues. It's best to start by contacting the facility's management office. Combining these with indoor venues, such as those featured in our "Top 10 Recommended Live Houses in Tokyo ," to expand your activity space both outdoors and indoors is also a valid approach.

Alternatives to street performances | Places where you can perform for free

Street performances are a valuable way to start a band for free, but they're not the only way for beginner bands to gain experience performing in front of an audience. If you're worried about permits or equipment arrangements, consider the following options as well to broaden your range of activities.

Unlike street performances, these options require prior communication with organizers and venues, but they offer the advantage of allowing you to gain performance experience while minimizing the burden of obtaining permits and preparing equipment. Combining them with street performances to gain experience in multiple locations is also recommended.

5. How to obtain necessary permits | General procedure

The application process for permits varies depending on the location and local government, but a general overview is as follows. This is just one example; always confirm the actual procedure with the relevant office.

1. Choosing a venue : Decide specifically where you want to perform (address, nearest station, park name, etc.)
2. Jurisdiction confirmation : Check whether the location is a road (police jurisdiction), a park (local government jurisdiction), or private property (facility manager jurisdiction).
3. Consultation at the counter and preparation of application documents : Check the required documents (application form, identification, explanation of activities, etc.) and prepare them according to the instructions at the counter.
4. Application and Review : Since it may take a certain number of days from application to approval, please allow ample time when proceeding with the application.
5. Carrying your permit : If your permit is granted, carry your permit (or related documents) with you during your activities on the day and be prepared to present it if requested.
6. Adherence to rules on the day : Activities must be conducted in accordance with permitted time slots, locations, volume levels, and other conditions.

Regarding road use permits, the application forms and specific submission locations are summarized on the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department's road use permit application procedure page (example for Tokyo). Similarly, in other prefectures, information is often published on the websites of each prefectural police department or at the police station in charge, so check the information for your planned activity area. In areas with a municipal recognition system like the Heaven Artist mentioned above, the review and registration process may differ from that of individual road use permit applications.

6. Equipment | Amplifier, Microphone, PA System, Power Supply

The equipment needed for street performances varies greatly depending on the performance style (solo or band) and the volume restrictions of the location. Here, we'll outline the basic considerations.

Start with the natural sound (no amplifier).

It is said that performances using acoustic instruments such as acoustic guitars and percussion, which do not require power, put the least strain on the equipment and tend to be easier to get permission for. Starting with singing and playing without an amplifier is a solid approach to gauge the atmosphere of the venue and the reactions of those around you.

When using an amplifier and PA speakers

If you're using electronic instruments or want to use a microphone for vocals, you'll need a small, battery-powered amplifier or portable PA speaker. In recent years, rechargeable models that can operate continuously for several hours have become more common, and they are frequently chosen for street performances. Even compact models can produce a volume level that is perfectly acceptable in urban areas, so there's no need to choose an unnecessarily large model. In fact, choosing a model with the minimum necessary output will help prevent problems with neighbors by avoiding excessive volume. Prices vary depending on the manufacturer and output, but as a guideline, entry-level battery-powered acoustic amplifiers generally cost around 10,000 to 30,000 yen, and portable PA speakers, which are often used for street performances, generally start from around 20,000 to 50,000 yen (this is just a guideline, and actual prices will vary depending on the product and time of purchase). As for the initial investment, including peripheral equipment such as microphones and cables, it's realistic to acquire them gradually within your means.

Securing a power source

Since there are generally no power outlets on the streets, securing a power source is a unique challenge for street performances. Portable power supplies , which have become increasingly popular in recent years, allow you to run amplifiers, PA speakers, lighting, and other equipment for extended periods. If you use amplifiers and speakers with built-in batteries, you may not even need a portable power supply at all, so it's a good idea to consider "how to secure power" as part of your equipment selection process. Prices vary greatly depending on capacity and output, but for street performances where you only need to run one or two amplifiers for a few hours, small to medium-sized models costing around 10,000 to 40,000 yen are often a viable option (prices tend to increase with larger capacity, so it's recommended to choose based on the required operating time).

The basics of microphones and PA systems are explained in detail in the Band Sound and PA Beginner's Guide . For basic knowledge about choosing effects pedals and amplifiers , the Band Equipment and Effects Pedal Beginner's Guide is also a good resource. If you're planning to try street performances with a band, we recommend practicing thoroughly in a studio beforehand, referring to the Complete Guide to Renting a Band Practice Space/Studio, before heading out onto the street. Outdoors, it's not possible to fine-tune the sound balance as much as indoors, so perfecting your setup through prior practice directly impacts the quality of your performance on the day.

7. Practical aspects of tipping and merchandise sales

Street performers sometimes monetize part of their activities through tips and the sale of original merchandise. This revenue is generally not intended to be a primary source of income, but rather to supplement equipment and transportation costs, or to provide a tangible measure of their success.

Cash tipping

The most classic method is to leave the instrument case or a special box open near the performer. The key is to place it in a location that isn't too conspicuous, while also positioning it at a height and angle that makes it easy to throw the money in. However, since this involves handling cash, there is a risk of theft, so please also refer to the section on troubleshooting later.

Tips via QR code payment

In recent years, with more people choosing not to carry cash, an increasing number of musicians are using QR code payments to receive tips. Some payment services offer peer-to-peer transfer and tipping functions, allowing musicians to easily receive tips from passersby who don't carry cash. However, each service has its own terms of service and conditions regarding peer-to-peer transfers and receipts, so it's recommended to check the terms of each service before actually implementing them. Placing a plate with the QR code printed on it in a visible location allows musicians to provide information without interrupting their performance.

The going rate for tipping

Tips are voluntary gifts from the audience and are influenced by many factors such as the quality of the performance, location, time of day, and foot traffic on any given day, so there is no accurate statistical data on "how much per tip." Based on that premise, among performers who have been doing street performances for a long time, it is said that the total amount of tips tends to be higher in places with a lot of foot traffic, such as in front of train stations, and on weekends and holidays. In terms of performance time, it is said that playing for a longer period of time rather than just one short song tends to leave a stronger impression on passersby and is more likely to lead to tips. The amount of a single tip is generally said to be in the range of several hundred to several thousand yen, but this is just a guideline and can vary greatly depending on the content of the performance and the atmosphere of the place. Rather than expecting tips to be the main source of income for your activities, it is more realistic to view them as something that helps to supplement equipment costs and transportation costs, or as one way to feel a sense of accomplishment for your work.

Sales of original merchandise

Once your street performances gain recognition, selling original merchandise such as music (CDs, download cards), stickers, and T-shirts on the spot becomes an option. The basic process of creating and selling merchandise is summarized in the Complete Guide to Creating and Selling Band Merchandise . Note that selling goods in public places may be considered a "commercial activity" unlike tipping, and in some locations, separate permits or notifications for street vending may be required. If you are considering selling merchandise, it is advisable to check with the relevant authorities regarding sales activities in addition to obtaining performance permits. Announcing music releases via streaming or distribution at the same time can also be effective, and the specific steps are explained in the Complete Guide to Releasing Music .

8. Trouble Prevention | Neighbor Disputes, Police Interactions, Theft Prevention

No matter how well you prepare, the possibility of trouble occurring in an open space like the street can never be completely eliminated. Knowing in advance what kind of trouble might occur and how to deal with it will allow you to respond calmly when the time comes.

Trouble with neighbors and passersby

You may receive complaints from nearby residents, shops, or passersby for reasons such as the volume being too loud, the performance being too long, or obstructing traffic. If you receive a complaint, it is important to first stop playing and listen carefully to what the other person has to say. Instead of arguing emotionally, acknowledge their concerns by saying, "I'm sorry for the inconvenience," and then take appropriate measures such as lowering the volume, moving to a different location, or shortening the performance time if necessary. Choosing times to perform that are considerate of the surrounding people's daily lives, such as early morning or late at night, can also help prevent trouble.

How to respond if approached by a police officer

It's not uncommon to be approached by police officers while performing on the street. In most cases, the purpose is to check the situation or whether you have a permit. If you have a permit, calmly present your permit and related documents. If you are performing without a permit, or if you are asked to follow instructions, the basic rule is to comply with them on the spot. To avoid escalating the situation, it is best to respond calmly to the police officer's instructions and, if you have any questions, to contact the relevant authorities at a later date.

Theft and valuables management

Keep your tip box, instruments, smartphones, and other valuables within your line of sight at all times while you're performing. There have been reports of valuables being stolen, especially in busy areas, while musicians are focused on their performance. If possible, work in groups and divide the responsibility of watching over your belongings, and frequently check your tip box to prevent it from accumulating too much cash. If you're in a band, it's a good idea to have one member who is also conscious of keeping an eye on the surroundings.

Initial response checklist for when a problem occurs

To avoid panicking when a problem actually occurs, it's helpful to have a checklist of initial response steps for each situation memorized beforehand. This will allow you to act calmly.

Initial response when complaints come from neighbors or passersby

1. Immediately stop playing.
2. Listen to the other person until they finish speaking without interrupting.
3. "I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused."
4. We will suggest possible solutions such as lowering the volume, moving to a different location, or shortening the duration.
5. If the performance resumes, it will continue in a more considerate manner than before.

What to do when approached by a police officer

1. First, stop playing and show that you are willing to listen to the police officer.
2. If you have permission, calmly present the permission and related documents.
3. If you are not authorized or if you are instructed to do so, follow the instructions on the spot.
4. Even if you have questions, do not argue on the spot; instead, confirm them with the relevant department at a later date.

Initial response when equipment problems occur

1. First, stop playing and check the condition of the equipment (power, connections, and sound output).
2. If the problem is due to the portable power supply or battery level, replace it with a spare battery or cable.
3. If the problem cannot be resolved on the spot, do not try to force the volume up, but instead adjust the performance style, such as switching to a level that can be achieved with the natural sound.
4. If recovery is not expected, consider the option of withdrawing for the day without forcing the issue.
5. For future use, always keep spare cables, batteries, and basic tools in your equipment bag.

9. Steps to Putting It into Practice | A Roadmap for Your First Street Performance

Based on what we've covered so far, let's outline the specific steps for those attempting street performances for the first time.

1. Choosing the songs to perform : If you have original songs, make them the main focus; if you include cover songs, remember to be mindful of copyright. The "Complete Guide to Composing and Band Arranging for Beginners" is also a helpful resource.
2. Creating a Setlist : Even with a short set time, consider a song order that will keep the audience engaged. This complete guide to creating setlists explains everything from song order and MCing to encore strategies.
3. Finishing the ensemble in the studio : It's important to thoroughly rehearse beforehand, as fine-tuning the sound is difficult outdoors.
4. Choose a location and confirm the necessary permits : Refer to Chapters 4 and 5 to confirm the jurisdiction and required procedures for the proposed location.
5. Gathering equipment : Refer to Chapter 6 and prepare the equipment to the extent that it is feasible for you.
6. Start with short sessions and small groups : Instead of jumping straight into long, full-scale setups, it's recommended to start with sessions of around 30 minutes to see how it goes.
7. Recording your performance : Refer to our complete guide to recording your band's photos and videos , and start recording with just a smartphone. Once you have more time, you can try real-time streaming, as described in our complete guide to live streaming for bands.
8. Share on social media : Refer to how other bands use social media to share updates on your activities and upcoming performances, and cultivate connections with your fans.
9. Moving on to the next step : Building on your street performance experience, you can take on bigger challenges such as booking gigs at live music venues or performing at music festivals.

Street performances are not so much a one-off event, but rather an activity that continues gradually, changing the location, time, and lineup little by little. There's no need to aim for perfection from the start. Just start small, and use the feedback you get to take the next step.

10. Summary | Starting a band on the streets

This article has covered the essential knowledge you need to know when starting a street performance, from understanding laws and regulations, choosing a location, obtaining permits, equipment, the practicalities of tipping and selling merchandise, dealing with problems, and the steps to actually doing it. Again, the content of laws and regulations varies greatly depending on the municipality and location, so be sure to check with the relevant office before actually starting any activities. By correctly understanding the rules and continuing with consideration for those around you, street performances can be an invaluable experience in your musical career.

As you gain more experience playing on the streets, you'll likely find yourself thinking, "I want bandmates to play with," or "I want to try playing in a larger ensemble." When that happens, try searching for band members on Membo . Membo's recruitment list features bands of various formations and genres, and it can lead to meeting bandmates who want to start street performances with you. If you're unsure how to use it, be sure to check out Membo's help page , user guide , app usage page , announcements page , and writers page. The one place you choose today and the one song setlist will surely take your band activities far forward.