Oh, this reminds me of something I saw on "Trigger Happy TV," sort of a British version of Candid Camera, wherein the host goes around doing improbable/obnoxious things and getting a reaction from ordinary folk. There was one sketch where he dressed in Highland regalia and busked with bagpipes. He approached an outdoor cafe and offered to play the pipes for two middle-aged women enjoying their lunch. They politely declined, and he "played" anyway -- making as horrendous a noise as possible while they covered their ears. After twenty seconds of this abuse, he abruptly stopped and held out his hand for a tip.

Anyway, I hope it doesn't go like this for the busker in the article.