Working around the system

Today I bought a new stand for my dulcimer that's at a sitting height.  I should mention that I'm vain enough that, before buying it, I had the proprietor of Lark in the Morning take several pictures of me playing to make sure it looked OK.  I've been thinking about getting one for quite some time, because the lower height of the dulcimer gives the audience a better view of the action.  I am, however, curious as to how it might affect interactions.  I've made a performance style out of standing while playing, and it's possible that being seated will be a hindrance.  Just as possible, however, is the chance that by being in a less "threatening" seated posture I might attract passersby in a different way.

Just because I've found a good way to busk doesn't mean I have the best, and I'm always looking to experiment and improve.

Later, on the ferry back from the city, I tried out my new stand.  The rules say no soliciting for tips, but in the past I've noticed that most of my tips come at the end of the journey anyway.  I figured, therefore, that not actually having a hat out might not affect my tips overmuch, and it seems I was right!  I would have liked to have had CDs out, but since it's a ferry ride I need to take regardless I'm happy to make it productive even if it's less than optimal.

I had a request for "Simple Gifts", based on Obama's inauguration, and was thrilled to have an arrangement of it already prepared.  There's an opportunistic part of my soul wondering how I can exploit its newfound exposure, since I recorded it on "Reprise"...