Many aspiring girl bands lack financial backing and promotion from a major record label or entertainment company, but this fails to dent their enthusiasm for performing.

They also have low budgets — paying for their own equipment, travel arrangements, meals and venue hire charges, among other expenses.

Performing much of their own music, they dream big in the hope of making a hit on the music charts.

Many members of such bands enjoy performing, singing and dancing in their spare time, and gaining a wider audience, but they are happy waiting to find fame and fortune.

Emerging independent girl bands are part of a growing trend in China. They perform in front of new audiences for the thrill of it, relishing every moment.

POKER is such a band. Its members — college students and office workers — talk to China Daily about their art and life.