From Brass Bands to Buskers: Street Music in the UK

The purpose of this report is to chart and critically examine available writing about the historical and contemporary presence of street music in the cultural landscape and our shared public spaces, drawing on both academic and ‘grey’/cultural policy literature in the field. The review presents research findings under the headings of – history – cultural policy and legislation – street music advocacy and campaigning – place-making, space and community – protest and social movements – creativity: performers, performance, and audience – festivals, carnival, live and outdoor arts. The report concludes with a set of future recommendations for research. To accompany the report, a substantial annotated bibliography has been produced, which is freely accessible online.