ABC Podcasts

Days Like These — True Stories

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

  • Dumplings and violins

Dumplings and violins

Tuesday 20th August 2024

Discover the inspiring story of Xiao Tang Qin, a 75-year-old restaurateur and violinist in Sydney's Chinatown, in this heartwarming episode.
30 minutes
Inspiring
Hopeful
Compassionate
Encouraging
Authentic

About this podcast

Days Like These — True Stories
Author:
ABC Podcasts
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Success Stories
Relationships & Community
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Family Recovery from Addiction
Comedic Journeys
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Dumplings, Violins, and Dreams: Xiao Tang Qin's Musical Journey

Episode Overview

  • Xiao Tang Qin's journey from Xinjiang to Sydney.
  • Balancing business success with a passion for music.
  • The impact of the Cultural Revolution on his musical aspirations.
  • Challenges faced by immigrants starting over in a new country.
  • The importance of persistence and following one's dreams.
Believe in yourself, as long as you work hard, you can definitely achieve your dream
Step into the bustling heart of Sydney's Chinatown with Wing-Quang, a journalist on a Monday morning coffee quest. But her plans take a surprising turn when she hears the enchanting strains of a violin coming from a nearby restaurant. This episode of 'Days Like These' introduces you to Xiao Tang Qin, a 75-year-old Chinese Australian restaurateur known for serenading his customers with his beloved violin while they enjoy freshly steamed dumplings.
Xiao Tang's journey from a small town in Xinjiang to becoming the owner of 12 successful restaurants in Sydney is nothing short of inspiring. His story is filled with resilience, passion, and a deep love for music that never wavered despite numerous challenges. From making his own instruments as a child to playing patriotic songs during the Cultural Revolution, Xiao Tang's life has been a symphony of determination and creativity.
You'll hear about his early days in Australia, working tirelessly in a Chinese restaurant to bring his family over, and how he eventually found time to reconnect with his musical roots. Wing-Quang's reflections on her own musical journey add a personal touch to the narrative, highlighting the contrasts and similarities between their experiences. Whether you're a fan of music, food, or simply love a good story of perseverance, this episode will resonate with you.
So why does Xiao Tang play his violin every morning? Tune in to find out and let his story inspire you to follow your passions, no matter where life takes you.