Dr. Lirui Xiong is a globally recognized Chinese pianist, educator, and collaborative artist whose career reflects excellence in performance, pedagogy, and artistic leadership, shaped by world-class training and international experience. She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from Arizona State University, a Master of Music in Piano Performance and Chamber Music from the University of South Florida, and a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from the Sichuan Conservatory of Music.

With over 12 years of teaching experience across the United States and China, Dr. Xiong has cultivated musical talent at institutions including Chengdu Normal University, Sichuan University of Arts and Science, Tianfu No. 7 High School, Arizona State University, the University of South Florida, and the ASU Community Music School. Her teaching spans solo piano, chamber music, and group instruction for students ranging from early childhood to undergraduate levels. Her mentorship has yielded outstanding results, including a 100% distinction rate in ABRSM examinations and top prizes for her students at major international competitions such as the Vienna International Art Talent Competition, the St. Petersburg Spring International Competition, the Singapore–Zhongxin International Music Competition, the Kawai Asian Piano Competition, and the Melbourne International Music Festival. She has also presented masterclasses internationally and guided students toward placement in leading music programs.

As a performer, Dr. Xiong has appeared throughout North America, Europe, and Asia in solo, two-piano, and chamber music recitals. She has been featured at prominent international festivals, including the Prague Piano Festival, the Brancaleoni International Music Festival, the Walled City Music Festival, and the Rebecca Penneys Piano Festival, and has served as a collaborative pianist for community organizations and academic institutions.

An active leader in the global music community, Dr. Xiong is a sought-after adjudicator and event curator. She has served on juries for international competitions and organized concert series and masterclasses with renowned artists. Her work has been recognized with numerous honors, including Arizona State University’s Special Talent Award, University of South Florida piano scholarships, and multiple Outstanding Teacher awards. Through performance, education, and leadership, Dr. Xiong remains deeply committed to advancing the art of piano and nurturing the next generation of musicians.