I was invited to busk on Saturday, 3/9 at the Portland Women’s Expo at the Oregon Convention Center. Normally I do not busk on Saturdays. However, when I read about Portland Women’s Expo I realized that they have the same mission of ending homelessness as I do. They are building a resource and training center for homeless women and children. Every year I donate 10% of what I earn to local nonprofits (see how gifts are used page). I decided to use this as a donation opportunity to give back to the Portland Women’s Expo.
10,000 people came through during the 2 1/2 hours that I was busking outside the entrance. This was a great experience for me because I got to practice performing lots of repertoire in a row, from the Bach to Tchaikovsky Concertos. When the doors first opened, everyone was so exited to get inside, not many people stopped to listen to my playing. So I didn’t raise as much money as I was hoping for charity. But thats okay, it was a great experience. They also invited me to give a 10 minute performance on the stage in Exhibit Hall C. Since the event involves a great deal of interaction and conversation among the many people, exhibits, and booths, I’ll know for next time that my violin should have a microphone. It was extremely loud in the room, so the only people who could here me were those who were very close to the stage. Overall this was a wonderful opportunity and I thank Portland Women’s Expo for inviting me!
