Any ideas on the best way of going about working live as a musician. I have worked all my life in this field in Aust and round the world. Have done a lot of solo Piano/Vocal work from Piano Bars to big hotel lounges. Would appreciate any tips!

Get a job , visa and work permit and you are good to go !

The problem is that all the above may prove difficult to achieve.

This from police order 777/2551.

2.17 In the case of an actor, vocalist, or musician working at a hotel or an entertainment company in Thailand with a paid-up registered capital of no less than Baht 20 million: Each permission shall be granted for no more than 120 days. The alien:(1) Must have been granted a non-immigrant visa (NON-IM). (2) Must have been confirmed and requested by a hotel or an entertainment company in Thailand which has a paid-up registered capital of no less than Baht 20 million

I'm retired but work a few times a month as an entertainer without a work permit mostly for the fun of it. I know many people that do the same, fly under the radar. If I had a regular gig in Patong, I'd probably have a problem. I know some who work regularly with no work permit. You're not suppose to take a Thai's job. I don't hear of musicians getting busted but the threat is always there.

Getting a work permit is possible but there are numerous hoops to jump through. You'll need to pay taxes and you'll probably be making visa runs every ninety days. Doing it legitimately is the rub. If you really want to give it a try, come here and check out the situation. Ask what others are doing. You'll probably figure out a way, but there is no clear path.

Good luck.