As one of the world’s oldest professional, busking is a creative outlet for performers to create music, whether it be rock or pop, and share this with a public audience. Next month, Ballarat will be harnessing the importance of uncovering the abundance of musical talent by hosting a Regional Final of the Australian National Busking Championships.
Buskers, armed with their instruments, a repertoire of music and an open mind, will be performing throughout the CBD, with performers from all over the country covering all styles from rock to pop, jazz to blues, country to classical, freestyle to folk.
Not only do buskers get their name out there, share their music and get to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, but there is the chance to win cash prizes (with a prize pool of $10,000), along with tips and busker votes from an admiring audience. Following the day, there will be a a finalists’ concert at the Minerva Space in the Mechanics Institute.
Previously ran in Cooma NSW, the event is hosted by The Rotary Club of Wendouree Breakfast, who have been able to bring this to Ballarat, acknowledging the thriving local music scene. With the event now been in its sixth year, it’s a highly regarded competition, celebrating all styles of music.
Festival Director, Garry McKenzie, said the event would showcase Ballarat as an exciting regional cultural hub and tourist destination.
“We have so many vibrant events and activities taking place in and around Ballarat. The Busking Championships will be a great addition to Ballarat’s events calendar,” he says. “We are confident it will invigorate businesses in the city centre with an anticipated 30 or 40 busking spots throughout the CBD.
“Already we have a number of buskers registered; hailing from Melbourne, Ballarat, other Victorian country towns and also interstate. We expect there to be huge interest in this event.”
If you’re keen, or know someone who is a hidden Stevie Wonder, register to perform online by Friday March 3. Businesses can also register as a busking spot and play a part in supporting the ability of these individuals and add to the energy of the day.
When & Where: Saturday March 18
Busker registration details are available on the website www.buskingballarat.com.au.
