Li Kuang is Associate Professor of Music at Portland State University, where he teaches trombone and music theory, coaches chamber ensembles, and directs the PSU Trombone Choir. His work reflects a commitment to both artistic excellence and student-centered teaching, fostering a rigorous and engaging learning environment for musicians at all levels.
Before joining PSU, Li served on the faculties of Murray State University, Southwestern University, and Blinn College, and was a teaching assistant to Nathaniel Brickens at the University of Texas at Austin.
An Edwards and Ultimate Brass Artist, Li maintains an active and diverse career as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral performer throughout the United States and Asia. His recent solo appearances include the International Trombone Festival, American Trombone Workshop, Big XII Trombone Conference, and the Jinbao International Low Brass Festival. As an orchestral musician, he has performed with ensembles such as the Oregon Symphony, Seattle Symphony, Detroit Chamber Winds, Sichuan Symphony Orchestra, and Chengdu Philharmonic, as well as the International Trombone Festival Cramer Choir.
A prize-winning performer, Li has received honors including the International Trombone Association’s Frank Smith Competition and recognition in ITA Emory Remington Trombone Choir Competition and the American Trombone Workshop National Solo Competition.
Li is also an active recitalist, clinician, and adjudicator, regularly presenting masterclasses and clinics across the U.S. and China. Recent engagements include Ohio State University, Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee, University of Oregon, Bowling Green State University, the China Conservatory, and Jilin College of Fine Arts. He has served on jury panels for the International Trombone Association competitions, the American Trombone Workshop’s National Trombone Solo Competitions, and numerous regional and international events.
Beyond the university, Li is deeply engaged in mentorship and community work, collaborating with the Portland Youth Philharmonic and serving on the faculty of the International Trombone Festival Youth Workshop. His scholarship and creative activity reflect a broader commitment to connecting musical communities, including his presentation “Trombone Pedagogy of China” at the International Trombone Festival, which highlights developments and perspectives in Chinese brass education.
Li holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Texas at Austin, master’s degrees in trombone performance and chamber music from the University of Michigan, and bachelor’s degrees from Bowling Green State University and the Sichuan Conservatory of Music.