From bands to busking: What local farmers markets are doing for live music

Farmers' markets frequently welcome musicians of all genres to perform at community events.

As the summer season approaches a close, local musicians are still performing in full swing for the last month of the markets.

Emily Weatherhead, a coordinator for the Provo Farmers Market since 2022, shared her excitement about the slate of upcoming musicians.

I really love the slice of community that we are able to host as performers, Weatherhead said.

This fall, marketgoers of the Provo Farmers Market can expect to hear from a wide variety of popular local groups such as the Filibusters, Just Khakis, Keiran and Sadie, Phillip Enkey and more.

In addition to more group-focused acts, buskers, who are musicians who perform independently for tips, are welcome to set up and perform as well.

They really add a fun flavor to the market, Weatherhead said. Its a fun way to get involved in the market for sure and in the music scene.

While some increased coordination may be necessary for organizing a band performance at a market, busking is comparatively easier. Andrew Israelsen, a multi-instrumentalist and experienced busker, shared his advice on seeking out busking opportunities at farmers markets across Utah County.

Just show up, Israelsen said. They just are happy to have musicians.

Israelsen cautioned that coordination with market owners is still crucial, yet taking the initiative is still a great starting point for those looking to busk personally. When compared to other places to busk, Israelsen said he ultimately prefers local markets for the atmosphere they provide.

You just have people that are ready for a good time, Israelsen said.

Pierce Bryner, a colleague of Israelsen and a busker himself, shared his perspective on the impact buskers have on the atmosphere of markets.

You see the people kind of light up when they hear the music, Bryner said.

For newer musicians, it may seem daunting to perform in such a public environment. Bryner, however, said focusing less on the mistakes and more on the people around him instead of himself has helped his performance.

I think that just helps you play better and helps the people passing by have a better experience hearing you, Bryner said.

For more information on the specific times of local farmers' markets, visit the Provo Farmers' Market website and the Sunset Farmers' Market website.