Busker Program

The Busker Program is an integral part of TransLink’s commitment to making transit a unique experience for customers, and to reflect the vibrancy of the music scene in Metro Vancouver. Since 1986, the program has featured thousands of musicians, and has been enthusiastically supported by TransLink customers. Musicians of all backgrounds and performance styles play at key locations throughout the transit system including the SeaBus SkyWalk, Burrard SkyTrain station, and several Canada Line stations, including YVR-Airport. The program is an important platform for both professional buskers and emerging professional musicians.

We are pleased to announce that as of 2025, TransLink Buskers will have access to a new scheduling software that provides flexibility for musicians to choose when and where to bring their music to transit-goers!

Applications for the Busker Program are accepted annually in the fall. Join our mailing list here to be notified or email us at busker@translink.ca to be added to the mailing list.

Our Busker Newsletter list is the best way to receive future updates on the program. When subscribing to the TransLink Busker newsletter, ensure you select "Busker Program Newsletter" to receive program updates.

Aaron Nussbaum

Having first picked up the guitar at the age of 9, music has always been a lifestyle for me. I am a part-time musician, performing regularly in bars, restaurants and at TransLink stations. My enjoyment and therapeutic value of music led me to becoming a music therapist, where I work full-time in community settings in long term care. It gives me joy to play and share music with others and build community experiences.

AJ Muraka

AJ has been honoured to be part of Translink's Busker program for many years. He continues to share his joy of music with others.

AK Pillai & Manu Varghese

AK is a Carnatic singer, producer, and sound engineer with roots in India and a growing presence in Canada. He performs widely, teaches Carnatic music, and collaborates with guitarist Manu Eapen Varghese in a Surrey-based duo blending Eastern and Western styles. Manu, a Microsoft professional with 25 years of guitar experience across BC and Seattle bands, brings dynamic live guitar and vocals to their performances, creating a unique fusion of tradition and modernity.

AlJunior

AlJunior, a guitarist based in New Westminster, verily appreciates this opportunity to entertain and learn from the travelling public. Playing since fifteen, his accomplishments include strumming Jerry Doucette's strings live at Expo 86; opening for Prism, Trooper and April Wine; placing second to blues virtuoso Dan Engelland in a regional Guitar Wars competition; and sleeping under a fifth wheel, at a remote gig. AlJunior writes and records rock with shades of folk, blues, country and metal.

Aman Rai

I’m a 22-year-old international student who is studying and doing music here in Canada. I’m a self-taught musician. Math rock, fusion and progressive metal is my main genre. I like to do many kinds of experimental music too. I have many experiences on live shows with my band called “Bigraha” where we like to do instrumental music.

Anushka Kashyap

Dubai-born, Hong Kong-raised, and Vancouver-based, Anushka is a Pop/R&B singer and dancer inspired by artists like Christina Aguilera and Michael Jackson. She has released several singles and an EP, including tracks like "Don't" and "With You" from 2021 and 2022. In 2022, she released an EP centered on Love Languages, and her latest releases include "Somethin' Better" from last year and "I Know Who I Am" released early 2024.

Bronwyn & Emily Absalom

Emily and Bronwyn Absalom are sisters who love playing music together and since childhood. Performing separately and together at many local venues in various punk and folk bands, they are inspired by their musician father and wish to continue the family tradition of street performing. Emily plays violin, mandolin, recorder and Bronwyn plays tin whistle, bass, and guitar. They look forward to sharing the music they grew up with and love.

Brooke Kaitlyn English

Brooke Kaitlyn is an emerging artist who plays a wide variety of covers ranging from indie rock, folk/Americana as well as well-known pop songs that everyone loves to sing along to. The uniting quality between all these genres is that Brooke sings from the heart. She may even bust out an original song without warning!

Cameron Krpan

Cameron, known as SSCK, is a Canadian singer-songwriter whose introspective songs explore love, loneliness, fatherhood, and everyday life. Influenced by The Bahamas and The National, his heartfelt lyrics and evocative melodies offer an honest glimpse into suburban life in the Lower Mainland, blending emotional depth with raw, sincere storytelling.

Catriona Day

Playing since she was 8 years old, Cat loves the solo cello for its moody, moving tones that tug at the heart, and rumble the soul. Genres such as folk, traditional, classical, hymns, popular all have beautiful melodies fit for the mellow cello. Cat also does not shy from a good kid's tune for the curious little ones among us!

Charlie Mackenzie

Charlie Mackenzie is a licensed TransLink busker and seasoned multi-instrumentalist specializing in acoustic singer-songwriter music. A former member of Memory Day and current vocalist for Visions of Scarlet, Charlie has shared stages with Sarah McLachlan and Barenaked Ladies, bringing joy to commuters through heartfelt performances across the transit system.

Christopher Rivard

Christopher Rivard is a Vancouver-based Canadian musician and singer-songwriter with over a decade of experience. He creates original music and performs a wide range of cover songs, playing at venues such as coffeehouses, pubs, farmers' markets, corporate events, and large festivals.

Daniel Lew

Daniel Lew is a singer-songwriter whose journey as an artist began after going deaf in his left ear ten years ago. Known for "folk music with large electrifying vocals" (Pancouver Magazine), he has released four albums, toured Canada, and gained recognition from CBC Radio, Ed Sheeran, and Jacob Collier.

Denys Knichiev

A Ukrainian artist and musician, busking for 2 years in Vancouver.

Digger Dan

Digger Dan is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter who combines blues with latin rock and other styles such as reggae, classic rock, and ballads. He is a strong soulful singer and an explosive guitar player.

Edward-Lee Kovack

Lakshman is a singer songwriter and cover performer with wide vocal range and dynamic guitar playing. From gritty grunge tones to searing falsetto, his vocal abilities have touched the open-mic circuit in Vancouver since 2012.

Elijah Oz

My name is Elijah OZ aka Classical Oz is a Uyghur Turk who grew up in Turkey. He started playing classical guitar at the age of 14, and plays Flamenco, instrumental, traditional Spanish, popular and old Latin music. He is currently expanding his repertoire to include R&B, blues, jazz and country.

Elise Tremblay

Elise Tremblay, a young singer-songwriter hailing from the beautiful province of Quebec, is a soulful artist whose music is not only a reflection of her talent but also a profound testament to her resilience and identity. Elise proudly identifies as a member of the LGBTQ community and bears the rich heritage of Inuit descent.

Emily Roskelley

Emily Roskelley is a dedicated street performer from Vancouver with musical theatre and classical vocal training. Starting her career in 2010, she has busked extensively and participated in various regional and national programs, drawing on her training from Arts Umbrella, Vancouver Youth Theatre, and more.

Enrico D'Onofrio

Enrico is a trained performer with a diverse repertoire of beloved standards, blending classical accordion training with his skills as a keyboardist and vocalist. His music, rich in nostalgia, connects with audiences of all ages, creating a unique experience that celebrates the universal appreciation of music across cultures.

Gaël Chabot-Leclerc

Gaël Chabot-Leclerc is a Vancouver-based percussionist, performing with ensembles like tango quartet Guardia Nueva and the percussion collective 240 Northern. Known for his diverse musical explorations, he’s dedicated to building Vancouver’s rhythm community through video projects and live performances, showcasing his versatility within the percussion genre.

Garima Soni

Garima Soni is a Vancouver-based musician and filmmaker, composing for the 2023 documentary series Heal Through Poetry. A member of the 2023-2024 Vancouver Trans Buskers Program, she studied music production with SOCAN’s Equity x Mentorship program. She’s working on her debut EP, Emotional Phool, focusing on mental health, empowerment, and social issues.

Gregory Donald Monty

After my parents shared their gift of music with me in the 60's, I played bass guitar for Ian Tyson & Buddy Knox In the 80's. I've been a licensed busker since 2023 & enjoy entertaining SkyTrain Patrons with various genres of music.

Harran Shi

I play keyboard by ear.

Ian Zafra

Ian Zafra is a Filipino musician, singer, and songwriter. He currently performs in Age Care Lakeview and Coast Mental Health. He was nominated as the recipient of Coast Mental Health's 2024 Volunteer Positive Impact Award. His fervent wish is to be able to pursue his passion in music, write new songs, perform his style of music, and be part in contributing to the vibrant music community in Vancouver BC.

Isabel Ramos

I’m a music lover, and have more than 15 years of experience singing at weddings, restaurants, musical theater and different events. Now that I’m in this great city I’m doing busking and I love to bring joy to all the people who enjoy my performance.

Iveno

Iveno is a multi-instrumentalist, visual artist, and expressive arts therapist whose music blends acoustic instruments, natural sounds, and electronic elements. Spanning ambient, experimental, boom bap, and children’s songs, Iveno’s work supports healing and mindfulness, with performances across four continents and use in therapy, meditation, yoga, and ceremonial spaces.

James Hunter & Grace Hight

We are Grace and James, a musical duo from New Westminster. Grace has been singing and entertaining with her guitar for over 10 years. James is a bass player with over 15 years experience and happily plays many styles of music.

Jillana Nickel

Jillana Nickel is a Vancouver-based percussionist specializing in mallet percussion, with 23 years of experience playing the vibraphone. She performs regularly with symphonies, choirs, and marching bands, covering classical, jazz, folk, and soundtracks. Passionate about music education, Jillana loves sharing her knowledge of percussion instruments like the glockenspiel and vibraphone.

Jirong Huang

Graduated from Shanghai Conservatory of Music in China and arriving in Vancouver in 1988, Jirong has given hundreds of performances across Canada and the United States, including the appearances on TV and CBC radio programs with his erhu. Jirong merges Western classical and contemporary music culture into Chinese music and continues to receive praise and acclaim from audiences.

Joe Crant

Joe Crant began singing in 1970 in Toronto, building a following from small clubs to thousands of fans.

Joseph Cheung

I came from Hong Kong to Canada in the 1990's and married with two daughters. I love to sing. I was in the insurance business and started my own trading company until I retired at age 55. I started busking about 5 years ago outside of some Super Markets in Surrey, and I had a busking license with City of White Rock. I can sing in both English & Chinese (Cantonese & Mandarin).

Klara Leppo

With early roots in school music programs and a love for jazz and classical, I developed my craft through trad-folk sessions in Ireland and England. I’ve recorded internationally, busked during the Vancouver Olympics, and now focus on writing original music—including a biographical album—spanning over a dozen cultural traditions.

Kole Demke

I'm a pianist with 8 years of experience and over 600 songs. I perform at weddings, private dinners, hotels, casinos, churches, pubs, bars, golf clubs. I use a Yamaha p-125a.

La Yeni

La Yeni is a harpist and folk singer whose ethereal original music has been called “fairy music.” Her debut album won Best Debut Album from Folk ’N Rock, and her follow-up earned Best Concept Album. A 2024 Canadian Folk Music Awards nominee, she performs at venues across Vancouver.

Lanwell

Matthew Masson, known on stage as Lanwell, is a 26-year-old guitarist and singer bringing heartfelt performances to Vancouver’s farmers markets, dive bars, and daycares. With a decade of guitar playing, his repertoire spans classics from the Eagles to Green Day, plus original songs rooted in small-town charm and storytelling.

Lorick Russow

Lorick is a dynamic musician blending vocals, saxophone, and backing tracks in his solo act. He’s produced albums like Just Being and founded bands including Dare2Funk. A Vancouver Jazz Festival and 2010 Olympics performer, Lorick has collaborated with blues icon Wes Mackey and toured with The Carnival Band.

Lucien

Lucien is an acoustic guitarist and vocalist performing folk, soul, country, and blues covers. Starting as a busker, he’s since played bars, cafes, and open mics in Vancouver and Washington. He’s now expanding his act with percussion and harmonica, crafting themed sets honoring artists like Leonard Cohen and Townes Van Zandt.

Luke Mai

I'm Luke! I started singing and playing guitar 5 years ago and have been addicted to it. It's my hobby and I want share my joy in music with others.

Marcel Greer

Originally from Manitoba, I’ve lived in various Canadian cities and traveled throughout Alberta and BC. Starting with piano, I later discovered Swedish guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen, which inspired me to learn guitar. Now focused on entertaining Vancouver, I aim to make a difference in others' lives through my music.

Martin Muñoz

Martin Muñoz López, a violinist from Quito, Ecuador, has performed on prestigious stages like Casa de la Cultura and Central University of Ecuador. Trained by María de Lourdes Flores, he’s collaborated with renowned musicians like Paco Godoy. Martin blends technical mastery and heartfelt expression in his growing music career.

Matthew Murphy

I’m an Irish singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Vancouver, BC. Using a semi-acoustic guitar and loop pedal, I create intricate, soft, and uplifting music. My repertoire spans folk, pop, blues, and rock, covering artists like Fleetwood Mac, Ed Sheeran, Tina Turner, and Johnny Cash, alongside original songs.

Maya KALI

Too ugly to be famous, too inept to be rich.

Melody Kruppa

Melody returned to piano in her late forties, inspired by a song she heard on YouTube. Now, she plays her portable digital piano on the streets of New Westminster and as a TransLink busker. Her favourite part of busking is connecting with passersby and sharing stories and inspiration.

Michael Farlette

Michael is a 19-year-old musician from Vancouver with 14 years of experience and 10 years of guitar playing. Passionate about music, he values both performing and listening. He’s performed in church bands, talent shows, and school plays. Outside music, he enjoys cycling, film, and cooking, aspiring to inspire others.

Natasha Kozak

Natasha Kozak, a Vancouver-based singer/songwriter, has been performing since childhood. Trained at Lindbjerg Academy and Sheridan College, she honed her skills in musical theatre. Natasha now writes her own music, alongside putting her unique spin on covers, continuing to evolve as both an artist and performer.

Nathan Barrett

Nathan Barrett has been proud to serve as a Busker for TransLink for two years; providing funky sounds for people to commute to with joy. Nathan is born and raised in Vancouver, gigging all over town at a variety of the city's venues. Nathan is also a classically trained theatre actor.

Neil Thompson

Neil Thompson, a late-blooming musician, has spent 50 years playing, performing, and writing music. At 64, he’s reached what some call the "wisdom art" stage, embracing the creativity that comes with age. Rediscovering the joy of living in the moment, he now expresses his music with newfound confidence and clarity.

Nicole Demers

Nicole Demers, a singer/songwriter from Port Coquitlam, writes acoustic and indie pop music. A 2022 Berklee College of Music graduate, she was a finalist in Berklee’s Songs for Social Change contest. After performing in LA at venues like Hotel Cafe, she now continues to perform locally in Port Coquitlam.

OBi Canuel

OBi is a pianist influenced by 40s and 50s crooners like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Bobby Darin. With a passion for performance art and a degree in philosophy, OBi aspires to become the Piano Man described in Billy Joel's song, blending classic style with creative expression.

Pat Axe

Pat Axe is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter who began playing at 14. After studying various instruments, he focused on guitar, learning the Segovia approach with Eugene Martnec. Influenced by artists like The Beatles, Eric Clapton, and Santana; Pat brings a unique blend of rock, blues, and ska to his music.

Paul Clifford

Born in the UK and now based in Vancouver, BC, Paul Clifford captivates audiences with his unique sound, blending warm vocals, harmonies, and electric guitar. A Canadian Idol Top 16 finalist, Paul has busked worldwide, including in the TransLink Busker Program and the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. He’s releasing new music in 2024/25.

Paul Fenz

A musician since age 4, I’ve sung with the Vancouver Bach Choir and played violin, guitar, piano, french horn, and trumpet. I’ve been busking since 1995 to spread musical appreciation. My repertoire includes Baroque, classical, late romantic, space guitar (Steve Vai), and classic Sesame Street film scores by Joe Raposo.

Paul Neufeld

Formally trained in classical guitar and a graduate of the Capilano music program, I specialize in easy listening/solo guitar, blending Classical, Rock, Blues, and Jazz influences. With over 30 years of performance experience, I’ve been a member of the TransLink Busker Program since 2007.

Peter Stevens

Having loved being part of the Busker Program for the last 2 years, I’m eager to continue connecting with the public through my music. With a lifetime of writing and performing worldwide, music brings me joy and harmony, and I look forward to sharing it with others.

Piotr

A Polish-Canadian musician busking in Vancouver since 2019, I share soulful songs across decades. After moving from Toronto 13 years ago, I found my home on the West Coast. I write thought-provoking music, compose on piano, and explore looping. Excited to join the Translink Program and spread joy through music.

Rene Hugo

Born in the Andes of Peru, I began playing mandolin at age 5 and went on to master over 100 instruments, including quena, charango, guitar, and bass drum. Holding a bachelor’s degree in music and pedagogy from Peru and a diploma from VCC Vancouver, I perform with up to six instruments at once.

Sam Chimes

Sam Chimes, a Nigerian-born artist raised in Southeast Asia and Canada, brings transformative music to global stages. Recently completing his fourth international tour, he performed in Australia, South France, and South Korea. Known for his dedication to creativity and growth, Sam is a highly sought-after artist worldwide.

SaxManZu

Professional saxophone musician with +99 public performances in 2024, entertaining audiences across the BC Lower Mainland. I am Spider Sax and SaxaClaus, with a broad repertoire of saxophone solos with a bracking track. Classical, pop, rock, jazz, holiday music, Latin. Energize to bring value to the TransLink Art moves Program.

SHO

SHO, originally from Tokyo, Japan, discovered his love for music in school and at home. After moving to Canada, he honed his craft at open mics in Montreal and Vancouver, eventually becoming a busker at Granville Island. Known for blending serene ballads with upbeat pop, SHO creates lasting memories through music.

Siara Taylor

Siara Taylor (Taylen Lee-Chin) is a Vancouver-born singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Inspired by Canadian artists like Avril Lavigne and Sarah McLachlan, her music tells emotional stories through acoustic melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Her debut album, In Shades of Blue, is available now on all streaming platforms.

Sofie Heye

Sofie Heye, a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter from Belgium, busks with her own songs on guitar, supported by a foot tambourine. She also plays world music, mantras, and covers, often combining guitar, didgeridoo, and djembé. Sofie has busked in Belgium, France, Portugal, Montreal, and Vancouver, and performed at ecstatic dances and open mics.

Steve Johnson

Steve is a versatile guitarist and vocalist with over 20 years of experience. He performs classic rock, folk, jazz, blues, and country, along with his own original material. A graduate of Capilano University’s Jazz Studies program, Steve has busked and played venues ranging from cafes to outdoor festivals.

Terry Maple

Starting in grade school, I embraced classical, contemporary, and choir music, later studying jazz guitar at Capilano University. From 2010-2016, I recorded four albums and toured North America. After performing in multiple bands, I launched my solo project, Terry Maple, in 2018, which remains my primary focus.

That Elvis

Experience the magic of the King of Rock 'n' Roll with That Elvis. With an uncanny resemblance and powerful vocals, That Elvis delivers unforgettable performances at weddings, corporate events, and parties. Add nostalgia and charm to your special occasion—book That Elvis for a show that'll leave everyone shook up!

That Saxophone Girl

Known as "That Saxophone Girl" in Vancouver, I’ve been wailing blues, jazz, and soul for 21 years. After studying music at the University of Victoria and touring internationally, including with Blackberry Wood, I’m passionate about sharing my music and spreading smiles wherever I go!

Two Trains

Two Trains is a Celtic/folk duo featuring Emily Absalom on violin and Lindsey Mickey on guitar. Veterans of both the stage and the street, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who likes to play music more than these two.

Tyson Kraul

I've been playing music since childhood, starting with piano and singing, then picking up guitar at 12. After busking in Australia, I toured Canada with my partner, who inspired me to pursue music therapy. Now, as I train, I share music to inspire hope, especially during challenging times with my daughter.

Wei Chen

Originally from China, I played Guzheng and Hsiao flute in a Yue opera band before moving to Canada. I’ve been busking with the Hsiao flute for 4 years in various parts of the lower mainlind like Granville Island, White Rock, and Vancouver. My music features soft, introverted East Asian folk tunes, focusing on subtlety and serenity.

Zeynep Sema Celebi

Zeynep Sema Celebi began her music career at a young age, studying violin at the Istanbul Conservatory. After graduating, she performed with various orchestras and explored diverse genres, including tango, gypsy, and Latin music. Now based in Vancouver, she continues to pursue her musical journey.

Have any questions about the busker program? Our program coordinators can be reached through email.