Networking Events and Professional Communities in Montevideo: A Drummer's Take
so, i rolled into montevideo with my sticks and a drum kit that's seen better days. the weather here is like a moody teenager-one minute it's sunny, the next it's pouring rain. but hey, it's not like i'm complaining. it's a short flight from buenos aires, so my neighbors are just a hop, skip, and a jump away.
first things first, let's talk safety. montevideo's got a rep for being one of the safest cities in south america. i've been walking around at night, and i've felt pretty secure. but, something a local warned me about: keep an eye on your stuff, especially in crowded areas. pickpockets aren't uncommon.
now, let's dive into the networking scene. as a touring session drummer, i'm always on the lookout for gigs and connections. montevideo's got a few hotspots where the music scene thrives. check out the Reddit Montevideo Music Scene for the latest gigs and events.
one place that's been a game-changer is *El Tejar. it's this old, converted warehouse that's now a cultural hub. they've got live music, art shows, and even some killer networking events. i met a few local musicians there, and we jammed till the wee hours.
another spot is La Diabla*. it's a bit more low-key, but the crowd is always up for a good time. i've heard some drunk advice from the bartender there-he said if you want to make it big in montevideo's music scene, you gotta play at la diabla at least once a month.
speaking of making it big, let's talk about the job market. montevideo's economy is booming, especially in tech and tourism. but if you're looking for a gig in the music industry, it's a bit tougher. i've been scouting around, and it seems like most of the work is freelance. but that's okay by me-i'm used to the hustle.
now, let's talk rent. montevideo's not cheap, but it's not crazy expensive either. a one-bedroom apartment in the city center will set you back around $500 a month. but if you're willing to live a bit further out, you can find places for half that.
here's a quick breakdown of the cost of living:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | $20 |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | $6 |
| Cappuccino (Regular) | $2 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | $1 |
so, if you're thinking about making the move to montevideo, here are a few pro-tips:
- Bring your rain gear-you never know when the skies will open up.
- Learn some spanish-it'll go a long way in making connections.
- Hit up the local music scenes-you never know who you'll meet.
- Be patient with the job hunt-it might take a while, but it's worth it.
and if you're ever in doubt, just ask a local. they're always happy to help out a fellow musician.
so, that's my take on montevideo. it's a city full of opportunities if you know where to look. and if you're a musician, it's a goldmine. just be prepared to hustle.
until next time, keep those sticks tapping!
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