Biography

Raised in a musical family, Wen Li has developed a versatile repertoire that spans from opera to jazz. Before discovering her passion for Ethno/Musicology, Wen studied composition with Beth Denisch and Dennis Leclaire, with a specific focus on 20th- and 21st-century Western art music analysis. A devoted practitioner of drums across cultures, Wen studied Afro-Cuban drumming with maestro Sandy Pérez and Dr. Michael Birenbaum Quintero. As a writer, Wen writes about electronic music and experimental music. Wen is also a DJ, radio resident, and the founder of lukewarm sounds, an experimental sound lab dedicated to critical listening, creative music-making, and cross-cultural musical practices. Wen holds dual degrees in Musicology and Ethnic Studies from Boston University. Whether singing, teaching music theory, or drumming, Wen brings joy, humility, and curiosity to every lesson and all students.

Teaching Philosophy

As a teacher, I use the practice of humble and active listening, encouraging students to listen and express themselves with care. I teach diverse approaches to the practices of listening and music-making, emphasizing experiential learning through improvisation, co-creation, and play. I break down complex concepts into simple ideas, create games, and teach students with songs they love, so that they genuinely enjoy music theory and experience the joy of learning and the joy of music. My prevailing goal is to help my students feel inspired, empowered, and curious to learn more.