11 Sep 2023

Street Art

Street art, as we know it today in the case of classical music and beyond, is constantly evolving and gaining a better reputation each year. Although it had, and perhaps still has, a somewhat negative reputation in some countries, it can be an excellent alternative for young artists who want to generate income at the beginning of their careers or earn some extra money.

The history of street art dates back to ancient times and has now become a recognized form of art that is no longer associated with begging, as it was in some European countries a few decades ago.

But what exactly is street art, and where can you find it? This form of art is frequently found today in public spaces in both larger and smaller cities around the world. By public spaces, we mean any place frequented by various people, not just city squares or central streets. Public spaces also include airports, train stations, and subway stations.

The growth of street art can be attributed primarily to the better understanding artists receive from the public, which has gradually shed its prejudices about street artists and now enjoys the music they perform in various public locations.

Another factor contributing to the increase in street artists is the placement of musical instruments and dedicated spaces for music in airports and train stations. Many waiting areas and train stations worldwide have pianos, making it easier for artists who wish to perform in those places, especially considering the logistical challenges of transporting large instruments. In these locations, the phenomenon has grown due to the often extended waiting times, exploited by artists who provide relaxation and diversion from the monotony in those places.

However, can this be beneficial for an artist who is a graduate of a conservatory and aspires to perform on grand stages, or is it a temporary compromise? Certainly, it can be beneficial! With the advent of social media, classical music artists who perform in public spaces can build a strong online presence, benefiting from increased publicity. This not only helps promote classical music but also creates a sense of wonder among audiences who may not attend conventional classical music concerts.

Over time, many established artists have made appearances in various public spaces to perform classical pieces. Even though the audiences present in these locations may have never heard of those artists, the success of such spontaneous events has undoubtedly increased the appreciation of the audience for the performer.

The benefits of performing classical works in public spaces can be significant, both for the artist and for classical music itself, as a significant portion of the public in these places may have never come into contact with classical music or attended a classical concert.

If you are a young artist, don’t expect to get rich from street art. Instead, think of it as an opportunity to practice the works you are studying in front of an audience that is likely to judge you less harshly than a traditional concert audience. You will promote classical music and yourself as an artist, and, most importantly, bring joy and happiness to your listeners.

Keep in mind that if you want to become a street artist, you may need permits and authorizations. It’s essential to study the regulations in the city where you plan to perform. In many cases, a simple application is required, but some cities even organize competitions for street artists and provide licenses. In the case of airports and train stations, it’s best to contact the respective space’s administrator.

Remember that street art can have a positive impact on your personal development as an artist and on the audience in your city, but it’s essential to consider the legal aspects before starting to perform in public spaces.

For more info check:

https://www.npr.org/sections/deceptivecadence/2010/11/09/131191618/random-acts-of-classical-music

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/26/arts/rio-brazil-classical-music.html