With the proliferation of YouTube tutorials and music producing software available online, coupled with platforms such as Bandcamp, Soundcloud, and QQ, it’s becoming increasingly easier for young people to share their voice with the world, and to let their vision flourish. Whereas kids used to toil away in their bedrooms or garage, plucking at a guitar and hoping to be discovered by a small cohort of kingmakers and gatekeepers otherwise known as Major Label Executivess, the 21st century is ripe for an egalitarian artistic landscape.

One budding musician who’s taking full advantage of the digital music world is William Z, aka Wandering Scholar who will turn 19 this May. Originally from Zhengzhou, Henan. William has been living in Beijing for four years and is currently a student at Harrow Beijing (HBJ). Having just released his second single, “Vibing, a follow-up to “Stairs/Fears” which dropped late last year, I sat down with William to talk about what pushes him to make music, and how it helps him make sense of the world.

Tell us about the first time that music truly spoke to you, or affected you in that deep and visceral way music lovers experience?

To be honest, I can’t remember the very first time. But I do recall one particular experience that had a great impact on me. I was around 13-years-old and was sitting on a swing in the playground where we lived listening to some instrumental music on my phone. It was night time. The music filled my mind, transporting me to another world that is quite beautiful. I love that music can take me on surreal journeys through space and time to different places and bring me amazing, out-of-this-world feelings.

What is your musical background? Did you start off by producing beats on the computer, or were you trained on other, more ‘classical’ instruments?

I have very little formal training in music. When I was in primary school, I was inspired and motivated to learn to play the traditional Chinese bamboo flute. Later, while in middle school, I became interested in the piano. I took a few lessons and then quit so that I can practice on my own, the kind of music that spoke to my heart. I would download the music score, listen to the music and then try to master the pieces. Though I didn’t get far in learning to play the bamboo flute and the piano, I still love both instruments and hope to pick them up again and master them in the future.

Deep down inside, I have always wished I could create my own music. Not having a solid foundation in music training was a major keep back for a long time. It was only last summer that I discovered there are all sorts of fantastic music-making software out there that make it possible for anyone to make music. I was very excited and went on YouTube to learn how to use them. However, the learning curve was much steeper than I expected, so I’m still improving my skills. But because there are many platforms on which I’m able to hire music composers to help me make professional arrangements with my directing, I could still move forward with making my music.

What does hip-hop mean to you and who are some of your biggest influences?

My taste in music varies, with hip-hop being one of my favorite genres. The vibe I get from the different styles and artists are varied. Some songs make me feel hyped up and some would make me feel like chilling and being laid back.

Wandering Scholar is a really cool name that evokes images of philosophers shuffling around dusty cities, dispensing wisdom across the ancient world. How did you come up with it?

I had similar images in my mind when I created this name.  I came up with this name about three years ago. The meaning behind this name links to what I want to be and what I want to do. I want to accomplish a lot of things in diverse areas. For example, I want to make movies, write novels, create music, perhaps even dabble in business. Therefore, I chose the word “wandering” as I will be traveling to different “places” in this “long journey”. In my opinion, a scholar isn’t just someone who has gathered a lot of knowledge in the classroom only. A scholar is someone who can go out and explore, experience, and create things in the world, which is how I would like to be.

Could you tell us a little bit about how you approach songwriting? The eternal question, right? What came first, the lyrics or the music?

Usually, I am motivated to create a song when I want to express some feelings, ideas or preserve something, which could be anything like my memories and experiences. In terms of the order, the music always comes first and then the lyrics. Sometimes, I would be inspired to make a song about something. My first step would be to create a great melody for it, then write the lyrics. But most of the time, the melodies reach out to me first. For example, a great melody might suddenly come to my mind when I am walking my dog. That’s why I always carry my phone, so I could record these ideas before they slip away. I usually record me humming the melody.

Your song “Stairs/Fears” juxtaposes lyrics about hope and optimism with a more melancholic overture. As if to say, positivity is possible in this world, but it’s tenuous or fleeting, something we have to work for. The name itself suggests that as we ascend the staircase to self-actualization, we’ll consistently be met with fear and self-doubt. Or as you say, “Waiting in the dark for the bright light”. Can you talk a little more about that?

You are right. We have to work toward positivity and for the great things that we want in life. I chose the word “stairs” to represent the process and effort that I must make in my pursuit of the things that I want. Actually, it symbolizes the path that everyone has to take in order to reach their goals. Traveling the path alone, in itself, requires effort and endurance, but there will be other things along the way that pose challenges, which, if you don’t deal with in the proper way, might eventually prevent you from reaching your goals. Not knowing what to expect and the uncertainties about one’s capability to handle the unexpected in the right way are the things that usually create fear in people’s minds as they reach for success. Personally, I am not worried about the challenges that I’m going to face. I am afraid of being changed by things and becoming someone who is more focused on materialistic things. I am also afraid of losing my creative and adventurous spirit which I feel are the driving forces that would help accomplish my success. You know how people lose their dreams when they grow up? I don’t want to become someone who settles for less than I hope to achieve, and pretend that I don’t mind that I didn’t attain my goals. That’s some of the hidden meaning in the lyrics:

“Pretending you don’t care / Looking at elsewhere / Suddenly then you hear / Someone crying oh dear, that is my fear”

This was the first piece of music that I’ve ever created,  I wanted to write down my hope, expectations, and my fears as I took the first step on this creative path. I think this theme will exist in some of my other songs. Because I hope to reach different places/levels in the future and I would have this to look back at as a starting point. By then, I might be answering the questions that I asked myself in “Stairs/Fears” and ask more questions in these songs.

Listen to Stairs/Fears

Following up on the last question, where do you draw inspiration from when you’re writing a song? Not only musical inspiration, but also from the world around you? What do you hope your listeners take away from your music?

I write about things that are important and meaningful to me, that is after creating the melodies and having the beats made. I don’t make music for making music’s sake or try to find things to write about. I make music only when I want to express something that’s on my mind and are usually things born out of my experiences. For example, I decided to write the song “Vibing” because I found myself reminiscing about, and missing the time when my family went on a trip to The Bahamas when I was a kid. We vacationed at the Atlantis which is one of the best holidays I ever had.

Listen to “Vibing”

What does Wandering Scholar have planned for the future?

I plan to make an R&B song for my next release. In the future, I would love to make Disney-style music like “I See The Light”, and instrumental music as they have always had a big impact on me.

Photos: Courtesy of William Z.

Do you have a tiny (or bigger) dancer on your hands? Mark your calendars out for a weekend of spectacular dance workshops for kids aged 6-16 years old. Several dance teachers will be coming in from Australia to teach some funky moves including, gymnastics, cheerleading, ballet, hip-hop, singing, and drama.

This special performing arts workshop has been organized by several ladies. Nicole Bradford is the founder of Bradford Dance Academy in Sydney, Australia. Bradford has been dancing since she was 3 and has over 20 years of extensive choreographic experience. Her passion for dance is tangible, and she is great with kids. Bradford is bringing with her two more teachers from Australia, Lauren Healey who is a ballet teacher and artistic Gymnastic coach and Ashley Simpson who is the hip-hop and contemporary dance teacher. Kelly Charles will be taking on vocal coaching duties, and the kids will prepare a showcase to perform at the end of the workshop for the parents.

I am quite jealous of these dancers, but I don’t think they would let me enter the workshop as I am too old. This workshop is a once in a kid’s lifetime chance to meet amazing international teachers and experience different genres of dance. The workshop will be held at Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) and is filling up fast with dancers from all over Beijing so be sure to reserve your spot quick.To sign up add on WeChat: Ilovematisse104

Although schools are closing for the summer and friends are heading out of town, even we were surprised by how much is going on in Beijing. Check out all the city has to offer in Free Events, Unique Events, Ongoing Events and the Best of Next Week.

Free Events

Give Blood. Save Lives. June 14
Ages 18-55. The blood drive is held in cooperation with the Tongzhou Blood Bank and open for donations from people between the ages of 18 and 55. Come give the gift of life to those in need. For more information on the importance of giving blood or for address and map information see UFH website. Free. 10am-3pm. Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics Blood Drive (3rd Floor, Building 2, Jiangtai Road)

Casa Tea Talks, June 15
Adults. How to create a bilingual environment at home will start this series by Elizabeth Hardage, Chief Academic Officer of Ivy Education Group. Free. 10.30am-Noon Daystar Main Campus (Register here)

International Newcomer’s Network – Shunyi Coffee Morning, June 16
Adults. If you’re new in Shunyi, this is the perfect event to meet your most social neighbors. Free. 10am-Noon. BSB Shunyi. (contactus@innbeijing.org)

Latino Bazaar, Colorful Fiesta, June 18
All ages. As with all authentically latin events, the family is integrated and always welcome at this bazaar.  Come try drinks, delicious food, handcrafted goods, original creations, wine tastings, and gourmet delicatessen. Dress code is guayabera and latin chic. Free. 2pm-8pm. Sanlitun Soho Building 3 (5785.3850)

Yogi Bazaar, June 18
Ages 12+ If you love practicing yoga, this is the place for you. Enjoy quality yoga products, handicrafts, organic food, and other healthy lifestyle products. Free. 10am – 6pm. Chaoyang Park Plaza 08 (wechat id: sheishei)

Father’s Day Summer Fair, June 19
All ages. Join EtonKids for the “Summer Fair” to enjoy a variety of exciting activities including but not limited to plate drawing, magic balloons, Lion Family photo shooting, Montessori classroom experience and Father’s Day Parenting Storybook, and lots more. Cakes and drinks are served. Free. 9.30am-1.30pm. EtonKids International Bilingual Kindergarten, Peking House (Scan QR Code to Apply)

School Warming Party and Family Day, June 19
All ages. Join Daystar for painting, stories, music, snacks and cultural activities to get ready for an easy transition from home to school. Free. 9am-2pm. Guantang West Gate Campus (Register here)

Many Farms to Neighbors workshops have been popular with kids and adults alike.

Unique Events

Calligraphy Class in English, June 14
Ages 7+ Chinese calligraphy is a form of calligraphy widely practiced and revered in the Sinosphere, which often includes China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam.  The Four Treasures of the Study – the ink brush, ink, paper (made of rice & bamboo), and inkstone are provided. RMB 250 (Door) RMB 200 (Prepaid) 10.30am-Noon. China Culture Center (6432.9341)

Richard Galliano & Geneva Camerata, June 15
Ages 13+ This globally-travelled and innovative orchestra has recently collaborated with soloists such as Emmanuel Pahud, Steven Isserlis, Patricia Kopatchinskaja, Andreas Scholl, Avi Avital, and Daniel Hope, among others. David Greilsammer and GECA regularly work with choreographers and visual artists, as well as jazz, world, and rock musicians. RMB 80+ 7.30-9pm. National Centre for the Performing Arts (6655.0000)

Chinese Stuffed Pancakes, June 15
Ages 7+ Xian bing is the Chinese version of a stuffed pancake, and the secret to a great one is making a rich, crispy dough that isn’t greasy, while adding some flavorful spices to the more traditional fillings: beef, pork, lamb, veggies and other mixes. RMB 300. 2.30-5pm. The Hutong (events@thehutong.com )

Half Day Beijing Walking Tour, June 18
Ages 7+ Join Beijing Trips for a four hour tour of the city. Participants have a say in this tour as it’s designed with each individual involved in mind. Price includes lunch. RMB 190. 8am-Noon. Beijing Trips (beijinghutongtrips@yahoo.com)

Mindful Eating Practice at Farm to Neighbors Market, June 19
All ages. This week, at the regular free Farm to Neighbors market held every Saturday and Sunday from Noon to 6pm, the Mindfulness Centre is teaming up with Farm to Neighbors and Food Revolution to offer a non-profit workshop to practice mindfulness with healthy eating. This workshop will be conducted on the third floor (Yoga Summit). Kids session is held from 1.30-2pm and the adults session is 2.15-4pm. RMB 30 (Kids) RMB 60 (Adults). Grand Summit (WeChat: 18600116714)

Yoga Dance for Charity, June 19
Ages 13+ Combine vinyasa, dance and charity at this community supporting class. Minimum RMB 15. 7-8.30pm. Yoga Yard (WeChat: Malgo85)

Alright, we admit it’s not going to be Audrey gracing the stage, but My Fair Lady is still a beloved cultural experience.

Ongoing Events

My Fair Lady, June 14-19
Ages 6+ This heartwarming and classic story of love, language, and society is perfect for avoiding summer fallback. Just remember to end the performance with a discussion about themes and presentation. Tickets under RMB 480 already sold out. RMB 480 – 1280. 7.30pm. Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center. (ponypiao@damai.cn)

Aerial Yoga Class, Tuesdays
Ages 16+ Join this sexy and fun class to nail those handstand poses you can’t reach on your own. RMB 49 (Groupon DianPing) RMB 199 (Drop-in). 12.30-1.30pm and 6-9pm. Wangjing Soho (WeChat: divadanceacademy)

Taekwondo Fit Girl’s Class, Wednesdays
Ages 13+ NB8 Taekwondo classes for women will help you achieve greater strength and improved self-control. Classes teach how to effectively stop an attacker who is bigger than you, while at the same time improving your balance, hand-eye coordination, and build faster reflexes. RMB 1250. 7.30-8.30pm. Shangdu Soho, (ntep3@me.com)

Cavalia, June 15 – July 31
All ages. Cavalia has extended its stay for the whole summer. Cheap seats sell out weeks in advance, so plan ahead if you want in on a budget. RMB 120-1980. 2.30pm, 7.30pm. Chaoyang Park Dong San Men Parking Lot (ponypiao@damai.cn)

Jazz-Pop Class, Fridays
Ages 13+ Got problems with coordination? Let Giselle at Diva Dance Academy whip you into shape with some moves to boot. RMB 49 (Groupon DianPing) RMB 199 (Drop-in). 6-9pm. Wangjing Soho (WeChat: divadanceacademy)

Summer Concerts of the German Choir Beijing, June 18-19
Ages 5+ The German Choir will be supported by a multinational Madrigal Chorus. June 18, German Embassy School Beijing, then June 19 at Hilton Hotel Beijing. RMB 100. 5pm. (deutsche.kantorei.peking@gmail.com)

Multicultural Volleyball, Saturdays
Ages 16+ Laid back fun with a mix of volleyball-loving men and women is a great way to start off the summer. Fee is just for court costs. RMB 55. 2-4pm Shichaihai Sports School (WeChat: chubidubby)

Watching us or watching you? Philosophical questions at the Beijing Zoo must be answered.

6 Best of Next Week

Beijing Zoo, June 21
Ages 3+ Take a walk on the wild side with That’s Mandarin at the Beijing Zoo. Home to animals from around the world, it’s fun for all the family. RMB 500. 1-5pm Beijing Zoo (info@thatsmandarin.com)

International Newcomers Network’s Beer Night, June 23
Adults. We will be exploring little gems along with some of our old standby favorites around town! Come join INN to meet new friends and fellow beer enthusiasts to talk beer, sports or wherever the topic goes. Free. 7-9pm. Contact William Frisby for location. (WeChat: 13141443186)

Professional Development Series: Changing Jobs and Industries, June 23
Adults. JingJobs is teaming up with Beijing Women’s Network for this talk on the price of changing industries and jobs. This workshop seeks to answer, how much change is too much? RMB 50 (Door) 7-9p. Inn Cube (Register here)

Science Museum Visit, June 23
Ages 3+ Join That’s Mandarin on a visit to China Science and Technology Museum in Beijing, where you can explore hands-on, interactive exhibits showcasing China’s contributions to the scientific field. RMB 500. 1-5pm. That’s Mandarin (info@thatsmandarin.com)

Chinese Kungfu Class, June 24
Ages 7+ Everyone is welcome, even if you are not a student here. Reservation needed, signing deadline June 21. RMB 200. 1-3pm. (info@beijingmandarinschool.com)

Playdate for All! End of School Extravaganza, June 25
All ages. Sanfine has mixed up the perfect playdate for literally the whole family. They’ve planned bowling, ballet, face painting, arts and crafts, and a bouncy castle for kiddos under six. For kids between seven and sixteen, they’ve planned competitions (basketball, scooters, and electric cars), and DJ training. For the most mature of the party people, they’ve planned Thai massages, manicures, hair styling, and henna tattoos. Early bird tickets until June 16 cover two parents and two kids, RMB 100, then RMB 50 for each additional ticket. 11am-3pm. Sanfine International Hospital, Outdoor Sky Garden (Register here)

Photos: Courtesy of Fran Hanshing (VSP), Farm to Neighbors, Robert Nyman (Flickr), and The Coincidental Dandy (Flickr)