Page 109 - Demo

Sense & Sound: Five Ways into Taiwanese Pop MusicBringing Independent Musicians to the World through International CollaborationsRyota Nishimura, head of the Tokyo-based live house %u201cduo MUSIC EXCHANGE,%u201d is one of the most engaged members of TMC%u2019s International Advisory Group. A long-time advocate of Taiwan%u2013Japan music exchange, Nishimura has helped facilitate numerous cross-border performances and collaborations, giving him a deep understanding of Taiwan%u2019s music scene. He notes that Taiwan is a key benchmark in the Asian market in terms of both music sales and audience engagement, possessing real potential to become a regional hub for transnational music exchange.Reflecting on how he first joined the advisory group, Nishimura credits EMERGE FEST founder Nuno. At the time, he wasn%u2019t sure what role he could play, but the sincerity and passion of the TMC team convinced him to participate. As the exchanges grew deeper, he came to realize that international cooperation rarely develops organically without active coordination and clear planning. Because the group includes members from various countries, %u201cduo MUSIC EXCHANGE%u201d has since been able to forge connections with music industry partners in Korea, Malaysia, and beyond, broadening the possibilities for collaboration.For Nishimura, who has long worked to promote Taiwan%u2013Japan music exchange, these partnerships have not only expanded his team%u2019s practical experience with overseas industries, but also sharpened their understanding of how to support emerging musicians, offering them real opportunities to step onto the global stage.LeftSiva Yuan, veteran music critic and member of the TMC International Advisory Group, moderates the TMEX International Forum.Right%u201dRoad to BU-ROCK%u201d marked the first overseas edition of BIRF%u2019s showcase series, launching at TMC with multiple Taiwanese and Korean acts performing in rotation. (Photo courtesy of Sholar Wang)