Western musicians in China

[dave554]

Hi all,

My first post, so hello everybody, I will be living in China as of Jan 2008. If all goes well I will be teaching English in Haerbin for 6 months/1 year.

I am 24 years old, I play guitar and sing semi-professionally. I have done a LOT of work in clubs/pubs here in Australia and I was wanting to know if it is possible to make a bit of money as a western musician for hire in China.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on the matter, whether it is as a performer or patron. IN addition, if anyone can put me in touch with an agent/agency and feels inclined to do so please feel free to pm me.

Thankyou!

[muyongshi]

Yes you can. I know some brothers that played in hotels (as there job actually) and made some decent money and got free booze!

Can't get anymore specific (as I don't know the details) but it's possible....

[scorchio777]

sure

loadsa opportunities

harbin has plenty of bars that would take u on

u could charge about 300rmb a night, minimum

u might have to learn some annoying songs though

chinese people have a pretty limited idea of western music

[dave554]

That's not a problem schorchio, I think most western people have a pretty limited idea of western music

[maximinus]

I'm moving to Harbin in March and play guitar and bass. I've played in bands for the last 10 years, done the rounds.... perhaps we could meet up when I arrive? I'd love to have a go playing in Chinese bars!

[Tritone]

I'm about four months away from getting my bachelor's degree in music, and after that I'm heading to China for at least a year to teach English. So you won't be alone, Dave!

I'd love to be able to find work in China's music industry, especially as a copyist or arranger, but I think it would be very hard to communicate with Chinese musicians. I don't see "drop 2 double lead sax soli" on any of my flash cards. >_<