We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Yuxuan Li a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Yuxuan thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

It all began during my childhood; the study of music has always been an integral part of my daily life and has become a fundamental aspect of my identity. I first realized my desire to pursue music professionally when I was 15 years old. At that time, I initiated research into music schools and majors, preparing myself for the upcoming auditions. This passion for music not only influenced my early choices but also laid the foundation for my future career in the creative arts.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As an independent, multi-instrumental musician and music educator, my journey in the world of music has been both enriching and transformative. I specialize in playing the guzheng and piano, instruments that enable me to blend traditional and contemporary musical styles seamlessly. My primary objective is to break down cultural barriers through my creative music works, bringing the ancient sounds of the guzheng into the modern world in a manner that resonates with diverse audiences.

My immersion in the realm of music began at a young age, deeply influenced by the rich legacies of both Eastern and Western musical traditions. This amalgamation of influences is readily apparent in my compositions and performances, which strive to craft a unique, cross-cultural musical experience. As a music educator, I am profoundly dedicated to inspiring others, sharing the beauty and intricacies of music, and fostering a deeper appreciation for this art form.

What sets me apart in this industry is my unwavering commitment to bridging cultural divides through music. My performances and compositions transcend mere entertainment; they serve as conduits for cultural exchange and education. I wholeheartedly believe in the unifying power of music, transcending borders and backgrounds, and this conviction underpins all my endeavours.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Studying music professionally is far from an easy path. I went through numerous auditions, competitions, and evaluations by juries. Initially, listening to others’ critiques of my playing and compositions was an essential part of my learning process. However, as time went on, I came to understand the importance of tuning into my own voice as well. The transition from being a music student to becoming a musician involved a significant process of unlearning for me: moving away from relying too heavily on others’ judgments and starting to listen more to my inner voice, asking, “What do you think?”

This transformation was not just about gaining confidence in my abilities; it was about recognizing that while feedback is valuable, the ultimate artistic decisions should align with my personal vision and style. I learned that in the realm of art, especially music, it is deeply personal and subjective. While technical proficiency and adherence to certain standards are crucial, the essence of being a musician lies in expressing individuality and unique perspectives.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative doesn’t solely reside in the final product, but primarily in the process of crafting music. This creative journey, from the initial spark of an idea to the intricate steps of bringing it to fruition, offers immense satisfaction. It encompasses the valuable lessons learned, the personal growth undergone, and the sheer joy of sharing a piece of my soul with the world through my music.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yuxuandemili97/
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/65uTu6yDH9Oo4XdQu7PzRs?si=jW_VKQsCT8CSSu3HzHyGVA