This question is mainly for my European fellow musicians. I have a secure and reputable position with a symphony in the US, but always wanted to move to Europe, at least for a while. My wife got an offer to get transferred to either London or Paris. We both speak fluent French (and a few other languages). What I'd like to know is: If you're not part of one of the major symphonies in either of those cities, is it possible to make a living strictly gigging and not relying on teaching or another job, and raise, say, 30.000 Euro/year? I just need some opinions here. Thank you guys!

Leftseat75,

Absolutely. I know a number of people who make a living freelancing in London and elsewhere in Europe. We even import them as subs for our orchestra (Bergen, Norway) when our local subs are busy. I have been working in Europe since 1999 (though not freelance) and have been very happy here.

Cheers, Gary