Walgreens Using Classical Music to Shoo Panhandlers

Walgreens (Deerfield, IL) is turning to the musical stylings of the 18th century to discourage panhandling on their premises.

In a written statement provided to the News 4 TV station in Reno, NV, the pharmacy chain said it has “implemented a recorded music loop that plays outside of the store to help deter loitering” at several locations in the area.

The loop includes “Toccato and Fugue in D minor” by Johann Sebastian Bach (embedded below for your listening pleasure) and the “William Tell Overture” by Gioacchino Rossini.

“We take steps to ensure the music is only loud enough for immediate area around the store and cannot be heard by residents in surrounding neighborhoods,” the statement added.

Customers told the TV station they are appreciative of the tactic, saying it makes them feel safer.

Read more at News 4 Reno.