Biography

Zhenyan Li (b. 1998) is a Chinese composer and flautist based in London, whose work draws inspiration from theatrical elements, particularly the performance styles of traditional East Asian theater. Her compositions have been performed globally, including in Switzerland, Germany, Slovakia, the Netherlands, the UK, and China.

 

Recent highlights include 'Extrapolating' for dance and orchestra, premiered by the London Philharmonic Orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Hall; 'Bamboo Echoes', commissioned by Tangram; and 'Orisons' for countertenor and ensemble, commissioned by the Beijing Music Festival. In 2022, her piece 'Hashigakari', premiered at the Lucerne Festival, was selected for Ensemble Modern's Happy New Year concert series. Her opera Cummings & Goerings was staged at the Tête-à-Tête Festival. Additional projects includes works for the London Symphony Orchestra, International Guitar Foundation, Central School of Ballet, Psappha Ensemble, Theorbo Today, and Leeds Lieder Festival. As an active collaborator, Li has worked with institutions such as the Architectural Association, London Film School, Leeds Lieder Festival, and SOAS University of London, and with artists including artist Lulu Wang, percussionist Beibei Wang, and conductors Martin Rajna, Charlotte Politi, and Jessica Cottis.

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Li is also an accomplished Chinese flute player, performing actively as a member of the London Chinese Opera Studio and the Silk & Bamboo Ensemble at SOAS University of London. She has premiered  contemporary works includes the Chinese flute.

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She holds a Bachelor of Music and a Master of Music (with distinction) in composition from the Royal Academy of Music, supported by a scholarship. Currently, Li is a Ph.D. candidate in composition at the Royal Academy, studying under Philip Cashian and David Sawer.