Violin Buskers Using Pre-Recorded Music Draw Attention at The Ridge Marketplace

Photo byNew England Pulse

ROCHESTER, NH – A recent social media post in the "You know you're from Rochester, NH if you...." group has sparked significant discussion within the Rochester community regarding violin buskers at The Ridge Marketplace who, rather than playing live music, are miming along to pre-recorded violin tracks while holding signs asking for money.

Photo byNew England Pulse

The post, made by local resident Kelly Bennett, highlighted the frequent presence of these buskers and raised concerns about the authenticity of their performances. “It’s always the same two songs... I don’t know why people give these people money,” Bennett wrote, expressing frustration over what many are calling a deceptive practice. The post received widespread attention, with numerous community members sharing their thoughts and experiences.

Several commenters were quick to confirm that the violin music being heard was not live. “They are a scam. It’s all recorded. They don’t actually play,” wrote Jen Moreau, a frequent contributor to the discussion. Many commenters reported seeing similar buskers at other locations, including Hannaford, Hobby Lobby, and Somersworth Plaza.

While some community members voiced concerns over the misleading nature of these performances, others questioned the level of outrage. “Why is everybody so concerned with somebody else? You don’t like them? You think they’re scammers? You think they’re grifters? Whatever! Who really cares – just keep going,” commented Cheryl Stewart, expressing a different viewpoint on the situation.

The issue of fake buskers using pre-recorded music has been widely reported across the country. This practice typically involves individuals setting up in public spaces, playing along to recorded music while displaying signs with emotional pleas for financial assistance. In some cases, these performers have been accused of becoming aggressive when confronted or questioned by passersby.

Despite mixed opinions within the Rochester community, the conversation has raised awareness about the possibility of scams. Some commenters suggested that local authorities or businesses should take action to prevent these buskers from continuing to operate in high-traffic areas like The Ridge Marketplace. Others emphasized that individuals should be cautious when deciding whether to donate money to street performers or those claiming hardship.

As this issue continues to unfold, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and informed, especially when it comes to offering financial support to those performing in public spaces.

Despite differing opinions, there is a consensus among many residents that deceptive practices should not be condoned. Concerns have been raised about the use of children to garner sympathy and increase donations. Community leaders urge residents to refrain from engaging with or financially supporting these individuals and to report any concerning conditions, such as children being exploited, to the authorities.

Furthermore, residents are encouraged to voice their concerns to businesses and property owners hosting these buskers. By making complaints, businesses can take necessary action, including involving law enforcement to address trespassing and other related issues. This proactive approach aims to maintain transparency and uphold community standards at The Ridge Marketplace and other local venues.

For those wishing to support local musicians genuinely, community events and venues like the Rochester Opera House offer live performances by talented artists deserving of community support and recognition.

Information for this article was sourced from social media posts on the "You know you're from Rochester, NH if...." group.