12 Hours of Music-Filled Streets: Busking for CHANGE Takes Over Downtown Toronto

by Megan Oquias | 26th September 2010

September 21, 2010 — As I emerged from the busy stairs at Union Station, I could hear the familiar sounds of acoustic guitar. With the sun still beaming on the historic site, the stage was set for Michou to play for Busking for CHANGE, an event to raise money for the charity War Child.

War Child had their volunteers on the scene ready to accept change from anyone who was willing to show support. “We got everything from nickels to fifty dollar bills,” comments Betty Dang, team leader from War Child. “There was always a steady stream of watchers, and bands would bring their friends out to support the cause, even at 8am this morning.”

Michou had such a whimsical tone about them that could bring a smile to any busy commuters face. Nearing the end of their set, Michou wandered around the area with guitars and trumpets in hand carrying a bucket to get a few more cents out of anyone who walked by. When asked how they felt about the day, Mike from Michou remarked, “The sun was out, and the day was perfect, we’re having fun and supporting a great cause. Couldn’t be happier.”

Just up Bay Street, The Apollo Effect played an amplified acoustic set at the Brookfield Place. It was an interesting juxtaposition between the casually dressed musicians and the hustle and bustle driven suits. These boys were clearly rockers, possessing a sound that paid homage to acts like U2 and Bon Jovi. Brookfield Place created a beautiful backdrop for these casual rockers, who moved on to Union Station to play another set after wrapping up.

After the Apollo Effect, Ashes set up to do her thing. Such a big voice for a tiny woman! Fun loving and supportive of everyone performing, I initially caught up with her at Union Station for Michou’s performance. “I’ve been walking around since 11 o’clock this morning, I just wanted to make a day of it, ” she said.“ How you could not want to be a part of watching great musical acts strip everything down and play acoustic. I’m so lucky to have been a part of it.” Ashes confidently took to the stage to sing passionately, thanking anyone who donated as they passed.

Busking for CHANGE is an annual event that was inspired by Raine Maida’s independent efforts in 2007 to raise money for War Child. It has exploded into many bands spread out all over downtown for a full 12 hours. This year’s Busking for CHANGE was on the International Day of Peace. “Many artists have been supporters of War Child, or have expressed interest in supporting the charity,” Barbara Harmer, Director of Music and Special Initiatives for WarChild, explained. “This year, over 100 artists took to the streets of Toronto to support children whose lives have been torn apart by conflict.”

Everyone I spoke with had nothing but positive things to say about city support and the amount of awareness raised. “It was an amazing day of music for an incredible cause,” Barbara said, “WarChild is extremely grateful to everyone who helped make it so!”

– WRITTEN BY MEGAN OQUIAS