Leeds railway station set to host busker performances
Musicians will soon be able to showcase their talents to commuters as Leeds railway station opens its doors to buskers.
Emerging and established artists will be able to apply to play on the main concourse, in a scheme organised through station operators Network Rail.
It is the first pitch of its kind outside of London, organisers said.
The move was also arranged through Leeds Beckett University and Found in Music.
Leeds was chosen as it is one of the biggest and busiest stations outside of the capital, with thousands of people passing through each day.
Simon Rix, bassist from Leeds band Kaiser Chiefs, said the city "buzzes" with live music.
"At a time when up-and-coming musicians need all the support they can get to access venues, build a fan base or get their own music heard, we've seen that busking has a really valuable role to play," he said.
Those who hope to perform at the station can apply online.
Busk in London programme director Kate Jones said Leeds has a "fabulous music heritage", with performances adding to the experience of rail passengers.
"You've got tiny venues to big venues and a huge talent pool of people who want to play," she said.
David Dunwell, from Leeds band the Dunwells, said the move allowed "everything that is good about Leeds" to be showcased to visitors to the city.
"This step to put live music into the train station is going to be incredible," he said.
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