Thompson: Value-Added Street Musicians

Since the 1980s, "Music Under New York," or MUNY has adopted market-driven competition to enhance the quality of performers in the subways. NPR reported on the 63 musicians who auditioned for prime performing spots in the mass transit system.  Twenty seven were selected, replacing musicians who did not bring enough value added to their location.  Each year, performers who did not contribute enough to the location's fare increase target, must re-apply for their spots.  "It's a constant re-tuning," said Bob Holman, the MUNY master of ceremonies.