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.

Teaching Philosophy

As a teacher, I practice 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 they experience the joy of learning.