Dr. Yirui Li

Yirui Li

Harp & Early Piano Faculty of Vivace International School of Music

Adjunct Harp professor at Sam Houston State University

Professional Harpist 

 

DMA Dissertation: ​

Pedagogical Strategies for Managing Music Performance Anxiety on the Harp 

Yirui Li is an accomplished harpist from Eugene, Oregon, with a deep dedication to 

her craft and 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 in 

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 the guidance of esteemed teachers and has developed a deep understanding of the harp's rich musical heritage. 

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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: 

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• 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 

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