Introduction
Yirui Li is an accomplished harpist from Eugene, Oregon, deeply dedicated to her craft and has an impressive educational background. She is currently serving as Professor of Harp at Sam Houston State University. Her commitment to music education is evident in her efforts to teach students about the cultural influences of
music, while also helping them develop their technical skills and appreciation for the arts. Yirui’s journey as a harpist began at the Tianjin Conservatory of Music in China, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Harp Performance. She then continued her studies in the United States, obtaining her Master of Music in Harp Performance from the State University of New York at Fredonia. Graduated from the University of Oregon with a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in June of this year. Throughout her academic career, she has honed her skills under esteemed teachers’ guidance and developed a deep understanding of the harp’s rich musical heritage.
In addition to her teaching experience, Yirui has a rich background in performance, having played with prestigious ensembles such as Orchestra Next, Skagit Symphony Orchestra, and Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Her repertoire spans a wide range of genres and styles, including classical masterpieces like Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique, Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5, and Holst’s The Planets. Her performances have been featured in various notable events, and she has garnered numerous awards and recognitions, including first place in the American International Music Competition and the Van Bach International Music Competition.
Yirui’s commitment to excellence extends beyond her performance and teaching career.
She is a member of the World Harp Congress and a certified teacher with the China Orchestra Network, reflecting her dedication to staying connected with the global harp community and contributing to its growth.
Her work has also been recognized in media outlets, with her story of studying abroad and her lifelong connection to the harp being featured in People’s Daily. In 2021, she was awarded a full scholarship for her doctoral studies, a testament to her talent and hard work.
Yirui’s passion for music and her dedication to her students make her a sought-after harpist and educator. She continues to inspire and influence the next generation of musicians through her performances, teaching, and scholarly contributions.
Honors, Awards, and Recognitions:
1st Prize, L Group, American International Music Competition (2024)
Gold Prize, Professional Group, Van Bach International Music Competition (2024)
2nd Prize, Professional Group, MAP International Music Competition (2023)
3rd Prize, Professional Group, Poppy Harp Competition Harp Festival (2023)
Full Scholarship for Doctor of Musical Arts, University of Oregon (2021)
People’s Daily feature: “Li Yirui: Studying abroad, the harp that accompanied her
throughout her youth.”
Young Artist Signed by China Orchestra Network/ Signed Teachers of China
Orchestra Network
Member of China Association for Promoting Children’s Culture and Art
Member of World Harp Congress
Education
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University of Oregon
- 2021-2024 Doctor of Musical Arts
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State University of New York at Fredonia
- 2018-2021 Master of Music
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Tianjin Conservatory of Music
- 2014-2018 Bachelor
Experience
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West Texas Symphony Orchestra
- 10/2024-10/2024 Principal Harpist
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Sam Houston State University
- 9/2024-Present Adjunct Professor
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University of Oregon-Community Music Institution
- 3/2023-6/2023 Harp Coach
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University of Oregon-Community Music Institution
- 9/2021-12/2021 Assistant Harp Coach
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Skagit Symphony Orchestra
- 12/2022-12/2022 Harpist
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Vancouver Symphony
- 5/2023-5/2023 Harpist
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UT-RGV Symphony Orchestra
- 10/2024-10/2024 Harpist
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SFA Symphony Orchestra
- 11/2024-11/2024 Harpist
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First United Methodist Church
- 12/2024-12/2024 Harpist
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Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
- 12/2024-12/2024 Harpist
