The Hoose

We made it to Florida today!

We’ve been making our slow way here for about 3 months, playing all the towns we pass on the way. It’s cold and windy but there are still many people walking in the streets and everyone loves my music today! I finds nice spot outside a coffee shop and I have a lot of fun in the afternoon, attracting a bit of a crowd, and a lot of people sit down to listen on the benches nearby, so I decide to go back out for a second time in the evening.

It’s quieter by far, probably because of the cold, but I have a wonderful time with a couple from Jacksonville, who give me all the the money they have on them! They really make my evening! They also tell me that Jacksonville isn’t good for busking and that Saint Augustine isn’t as good as it used to be, because they give permits to buskers who just lounge about, which is why they come here now for a getaway. I love all the insights locals give me! It makes planning our route much easier.

I also LOVE connecting with people. Talking with folks from all walks of life is one of my favourite aspects of my work, and music always brings people out of their shells. I take requests from all genres and I have a huge list I’m working on. I feel this really broadens my horizons and I always learn so much from everyone. I was worried that my repertoire wouldn’t go down well in the USA but was pleasantly surprised to find the reception here so positive.

Music is emotion, and all humans feel the same emotions. I think it is such a gift to be able to stand in the street and sing to strangers, sharing such a strong emotional connection with them. Children especially love it and I think perhaps some of them haven’t heard live music before- what a privilege to provide that for them. There really is something special about live music, and I strive to make it available to all.