Young busker tuning up for her fifth Christmas spreading cheer in Marton

Sarah Hunt says she feels lucky to playing music in the town she loves. Photo / Lin Ferguson

Sarah Hunt has been serenading Marton shoppers playing Christmas carols on her violin for the past five Christmas seasons and has loved every one.

She had started as a student before leaving Rangitikei College and quickly realised how much people appreciated her playing.

"I've lived here in Marton all my life and I know how great this community is. I really enjoy being here playing music. I don't ever feel stupid. I feel very proud.''

Small children sat across from Sarah last week smiling with the music and many shoppers passing by were humming the well-known carols.

The Rangitikei District Council give Sarah special busking permission each year and Countdown Supermarket allows her to set up and play outside its store.

Sarah, who is now studying nursing at Massey University in Palmerston North, cherishes her extra-curricular music tuition.

"I learn piano and violin and I love them both.''

She smiles as people drop coins and notes into her violin case.

"Look, it's amazing isn't it?''

But the money is not for Christmas shopping, she said.

"No, it helps pay towards my music tuition. It's quite expensive these days. ''

The two weeks before Christmas is her busking gig and Sarah said one of the things she loves the most is seeing so many people she knows.

"And it's not as though they just come to see me, they're just coming into town anyway. So it's good to meet up with friends I haven't seen for along time. I'm very lucky and I love it.''