Biography
Born in Sichuan, China, Jiachen Li discovered his musical talent at the age of seven. In 2013, he was admitted to the prestigious Sichuan Conservatory of Music, where he honed his piano skills and expanded his repertoire. Under the guidance of Prof. Wang Mai, Jiachen earned his Bachelor's degree in Piano Performance in 2017.
Pursuing further studies in the United States, Jiachen attended Bowling Green State University for a music performance certificate, followed by a Master of Music from Cleveland State University. Currently, he is working towards a Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Alabama with Dr. Kevin Chance. His previous instructors include Thomas Rosenkranz, Solungga Liu, Joela Jones, Angelin Chang. During his time at Cleveland State, he was awarded a full scholarship and the Joan Terri Ronis Award as a graduate assistant.
At the University of Alabama, Jiachen serves as a full-time graduate assistant at the School of Theater and Dance, working closely with musical theater studios. He worked with the University of Alabama Opera House during the 2022-2023 season as a rehearsal pianist.
Beyond his academic commitments, Jiachen is a dedicated piano teacher and an active member of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA). He began his teaching career in Cleveland, Ohio, instructed over 50 students from diverse backgrounds. As an MTNA member, he co-presented the "Concert for Joy" community engagement project at the 2024 MTNA national conference and volunteered at numerous Alabama Music Teachers Association regional chapter events.
As a solo and collaborative pianist, Jiachen has achieved significant accolades, including winning the 2024 Alabama Music Teachers Association Competition (Graduate Division) and placing third in the 2021 MASNO New Orleans Piano Institute Virtuoso International Competition (Young Artist). An avid collaborator, he recently performed with violinist Daniel Torres in the Washington International Young Artist Music Series Concert at the Catholic University of America.
