Albury singer-songwriter Winnie Em, 19, is performing at Albury’s first Busk on the Border on Saturday. Photo: Tamika Michel.
There’s something about busking that really connects you to your community, says 19-year-old Winnie Em.
The Albury-based singer-songwriter loves the interactions she experiences with people – young and old – when she performs on the streets of her hometown.
On Saturday (28 June), Winnie will add her voice to a new event for Albury’s CBD that aims to celebrate the creativity, culture and energy of our region.
Busk on the Border will see the city’s main street and QEII Square transformed into a lively performance precinct, showcasing an impressive line-up of local musicians, entertainers and street performers from 10 am to 3 pm.
The free, family-friendly event will include main stage shows in QEII Square, roving and pop-up performances along Dean Street, a maker’s market with artisan stalls and Shop-a-Local Jackpot prize draw.
Winnie, who began singing from a young age and started really honing her craft when she picked up the guitar about six years ago, says she loves sharing her music with others.
“I love performing,” admits the young woman who works at Camera House Albury and dabbles in graphic design work when she isn’t playing gigs across the region.
“I come from a very musical family – my brother’s a DJ. I love singing blues, jazz, pop/rock – a bit of everything really.”
She is often found playing at pubs and restaurants in Wangaratta, Corowa and even Culcairn, but admits there’s something about busking on the street in an open-air venue that she really enjoys.
“I meet so many lovely people when I’m busking – it’s a great thing to do. I often end up having some great conversations and I love that it’s a family-friendly atmosphere,” Winnie says.
“I particularly love it when the kids start dancing …”
If there’s one song sure to get people moving their feet out on the street, it’s Shut Up and Dance (by Walk the Moon), according to Winnie who promises it will be on the play list when she starts busking outside Albury’s Beer Deluxe from 10:30 am, before moving to AMP Lane from 11:30 am.
AlburyCity Team Leader Events Aaron Bykerk says the new Busk on the Border event is designed to connect the community through shared cultural experiences as well as highlight the CBD offerings.
“It’s about celebrating the creativity that thrives in our region,” Mr Bykerk says.
“It’s a chance to enjoy live performance in an informal setting and support local artists doing what they love. We’re thrilled to have 20 performers involved in more than 40 sessions – aged from just 11 years old through to seasoned professionals.”
Another important aspect of the event is supporting local businesses by encouraging foot traffic in the CBD and drawing attention to independent traders and makers, according to Mr Bykerk.
“This is an invitation to rediscover the city in a new way – to follow the sound of music along Dean Street, explore the diverse offerings throughout the CBD, and to experience the city centre as a place full of creative energy.”
Busk on the Border is free to attend – for more information on performers, times and site locations, visit AlburyCity.
