Taiwan's music scene exists in compelling tension—balancing artistic expression with challenging geopolitical realities. From indie rock to Mandopop, musicians increasingly incorporate Formosan languages and traditional instruments to assert cultural distinctiveness, while navigating complex cross-strait dynamics.
Meanwhile, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, former Soviet republics, are experiencing a renaissance through the "Nomad Soul" movement—reclaiming ancient heritage in contemporary music. Beyond the growing popularity of Q-pop and KG-pop, these nations are building music industries almost from scratch, with underground electronic music festivals across Central Asia creating vibrant spaces for experimentation.
These regions represent unique subcultural realms within broader Asian industry—operating in the shadow of dominant markets while developing distinctive approaches. Could their position at the cultural edge become their greatest strength?
Speakers:
- Peiti Huang, Programme Director of 2024 World Music Festival (Taiwan) / Head of International Brand Innovation Operations Group in Wind Music
- Chingiz Batyrbekov, Co-founder and CEO of kolfest Music and Arts Festival Entrepreneur/Activist in Tourism and Events in Kyrgyzstan
Moderator:
- Irina Shtreis, Freelance music critic