[Harp-L] Three questions to the experienced busker

[martin oldsberg <martinoldsberg@xxxxxxxxx>]

A friend and I have considered taking up busking here in our hometown. Not with the primary motivation of finding a showcase for our musical talents but simply because weÂre in equal dire straits. SumthinÂs gotta be done. (I donÂt honestly think this is going to generate any greater amount of money, but who knows, it could also be a fun experience.) 
 Guitar, vocals, and harmonica (w/ small amplification), thatÂs it.
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Three concrete questions for those with experience of this:
1)ÂÂÂÂÂ In the unlikely case that weÂre finding our guitar case filling up with some money, is it good policy to remove those coins from time to time â or does the presence of money act like a sort of Pavlovian motivator for the audience: âHey, thereÂs money there, letÂs give them some more!â?
2)ÂÂÂÂÂ Do you have to dress down for the occasion? I mean, look ragged and dirty and really in need of that money â or does the clean and sober appearance give the impression: âThis guy is trying his best to look decent, despite his being obviously down and out, having to play in the streets: that should be rewarded.â? (IÂm one of those who feel quite uncomfortable if IÂm not wearing a tie and jacket â A dying breed, you could say.)
3)ÂÂÂÂÂ It may very well be that IÂm walking into denile sementia here (IÂm 55), but I cannot for the life of me come up with one single instrumental that could provide a catchy intermission form my friendÂs singing. Really strange. 
ÂÂÂÂÂ Any suggestions? It doesÂnt have to be simple, I can handle most stuff, but, as I said ÂÂÂ
ÂÂÂÂÂ âcatchyâ, something people know and like and can whistle along to.
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Hoping for some wise instruction here.
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Thanks,
Martin