Street Musicians Disapprove Planned Regulations
Georgian musicians who usually perform in the street do not like the planned changes, according to which, they might need a permit to sing in the street and they will have to follow the list of songs, selected by the City Hall.
Sergi Gvarjaladze, Manager of the Night Economics Development Project, presented on April 20 by City Hall, says that there are very talented musicians in the streets, but there are also people who are not musicians, which "damages the city image but leaves unpleasant impression on tourists."
"Probably street musicians will be required to have a certificate that will allow them to play in the street," said Gvarjaladze.
His statement was responded by street musicians, who say the changes will mean “censorship” and introduction of permits will not bring good results to Tbilisi.
Street musician and writer, Toresa Mossy says the sphere does not need regulations.
“Leave street musicians alone! Every field of the art, where the government intervened, has failed…We, the musicians will look after ourselves. The regulations will make things worse,” he stated.
The musician added that copying experience of big European cities will not help Georgia because it is very different.
“Our country is 15-times poorer than European states…I think it is ridiculous to copy the system of London in Tbilisi,” Toresa Mossy said.
Another street musician, Shota Adamashvili says if the performers have to agree the list of songs with the City hall, it equals to censorship.
Adamashvili says the same regulations work in some foreign countries, but the musicians are allowed to sing whatever they want.
“People have different taste in music, so I think imposing regulations on some songs is ridiculous and serves as censorship,” he explained.
However, the musician believes it is good the Mayor’s Office recognizes street music as job.
"It means a lot that the Mayor’s Office recognizes street musicians as a self-employed people,” he added.
By Thea Morrison
Photo source: Imedi TV
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Permits May Be Required for Street Performers