The Idea

Looking at music today it is obvious that it is fundamental to living. It is everywhere we go, at home at work, in the cafes, bars and shops we visit. It has become more accessible than ever before. Technology has create an environment where everybody has access to there music through there phone or mp3 player. In the past to discover a new band you would more than likely have to pay, either for a gig or a record, now you can listen to whole albums on-line, preview songs, watch live performances all without spending a penny. Indeed, stealing music is now easier than ever with an abundance of illegal downloading sites.

The way in which music is made is still the same. There are many musical talents, and many directions a musician can take. Here |I have examined one route, that of a singer-songwriter. Inevitably all musicians start the same, learning at home or in school. Technology helps musicians spread there art with sites like My Space. Records are recorded, produced, mastered and distributed from bedrooms rather than studios. The musician will spend his time working his way up the ladder, playing for bigger crowds trying to get his talent recognized, from busking to open-mic night, to support gigs to festivals to, hopefully touring.





The first opportunity for public performance, and probably the most interesting is street busking. There are different types of buskers, some do it as a career, some for practise, some to road test new material, so to beg. Some put time and effort into there shows while others just put out a hat and hope for the best.