Rain Today

Steady rain all day. After a delightful concert by Les Songes I walked in the rain. Drops hung on branches like little jewels.



Montreal has many underground passageways joining buildings but also letting people get to the metro without having to go outside. It let me have a respite from the rain. I'm always delighted to hear some classical music being played in public spaces. This violinist, I discovered plays both classical and pop (rock?) as well as world music. You can hear her playing with Nomad'Stones.

Buskers

There seems to be a new style of busker in London. In the past I have seen people dressed in costume, made up to look like a statue. They barely move until someone drops money into their box and then there is acknowledgement of the contribution. Now this idea has been taken to a whole new level. These buskers seem to be suspended in air.



I did manage to get a look at the frame that is inside one of the costumes, but I still cannot imagine the strength it takes to stay hanging there in one position. I saw the top person near Covent Garden. Then near the National Gallery I saw many in costumes varying from what you see above to movie characters and even a witch.



I have no idea how much money they take in each day, but it must be enough to make it worthwhile.




This guy had a totally different approach. He behaved quite dog-like but had an amusing patter, interacting with anyone who came close by. Better him than me. I can't imagine how stiff I would be trying to get up after being scrunched down in this box for hours!

The Spoon Man

The Spoon Man, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.

This man has been sitting outside Ogilvy's department store in Montreal for many years. He plays the spoons - a traditional percussion "instrument" in Quebec. People originally used kitchen spoons; now you can find wooden spoons that are attached at the top. At one time the store tried to get rid of Mr Spoonman as you can see in this article from 2004, but people rallied to his support and he is now quite a fixture.

At this time of year, he faces the Ogilvy's Christmas window - a long-standing tradition. It is full of animated Steiff animals - a whimsical scene. You can learn more about the history of the window here.




and more here.

This doesn't do it justice - as you cannot see the movement here. But here is a link to YouTube video that shows them in action along with Spoonman.