They’ve chosen to make the corridors of the Paris Metro their concert hall, performing on one of the toughest stages there is: a stream of travelers in transit whom you have to win over in just a few seconds. The Woodbrass team went to meet the Metro musicians during the latest auditions to learn more about this program launched by RATP in 1997—now a real springboard for any artist wanting to share their music with the public.
Playing in the Metro: how does it work?
To be allowed to perform in the Metro, you must hold an individual badge, obtained after auditions held twice a year. The badge is valid for 6 months. After that, you need to audition again to renew it.
There are 300 musicians (not bands!) authorized to perform in the Metro at any given time. Some go down from time to time, while others never will—even with a permit.
The second annual audition session runs through October.
To find the audition dates and sign up, send an email to musiciensdumetro@ratp.fr
Gear picks to get properly equipped
Before heading underground to play, you’ll need the right gear. Down there, every musician faces a tricky environment. First, the noise: passing trains, crowds, announcements… so an amplification system quickly becomes essential. Another challenge is power: since there’s no electricity provided, your setup needs to be self-contained—battery- or rechargeable-powered.
Here are three products available at Woodbrass.
Lightweight and compact at 4.4 kg, this amp has all the connectivity you need and runs on batteries. Paired with the free CUBE Street II Editor app for iOS and Android, you unlock many settings and functions not accessible from the front panel. A must-have!
A busker’s favorite that’s perfectly suited to the underground: 7 kg and up to 20 hours of operation with eight AA batteries.
This latest version brings a host of improvements, including more input channels. Essential!
A few tips
If you’re running on batteries, don’t forget to pick up a rechargeable battery kit. Keeping several fully charged spares on hand will save you from going silent mid-set!
Once you have an amplification system, you can expand your mobile setup—depending on the number of inputs—with a few pedals or a looper, as Davis does (see video, FR). But be careful not to play too loud, or you’ll drive passengers away!
When choosing gear, think about all those stairs—and your back. Prioritize a setup that isn’t too heavy. A trolley you can strap your amp to is also a great companion as you roll your way to success.
Many musicians—Keziah Jones (see the interview below), Téléphone, Renaud, Ben Harper, even Manu Dibango—started their careers in the Paris Metro. So why not you?
