Urban vs. rural: assessing the living standards of musicians in rajshahi city and shahzadpur, bangladesh

Abstract

Musicians in Rajshahi and Shahzadpur, Bangladesh, were surveyed to compare their living standards. The descriptive cross-sectional study examines musicians' income, resources, education, health, and living conditions. A stratified random sample of 100 musicians (50 from each region) ensured professional and employment diversity. Result differences are significant across regions. Rajshahi musicians have better incomes, education, healthcare, instruments, and savings. Shahzadpur musicians rely on informal borrowing, lack formal music education, and face economic challenges like fluctuating income and fewer performance opportunities. Shahzadpur musicians benefit from community and cultural support, which helps address institutional issues. Percentage-based analysis shows how urban infrastructure, economic opportunities, and government support affect these disparities. Shahzadpur has rural constraints and limited resources, while Rajshahi has advanced infrastructure and strong economic activity. The research shows that gender, family, and culture affect musicians' careers and lives. This study shows that regional disparities require targeted interventions. The recommendations include expanding music education, providing grants and loans, improving healthcare and infrastructure, and encouraging government-cultural collaboration. These initiatives seek to improve musicians' socioeconomic conditions, particularly in Shahzadpur, and foster fair professional advancement and well-being. The findings help policymakers understand Bangladesh's music industry challenges and take action.