Today we’d like to introduce you to Xizi Li
Hi Xizi, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Xizi Li: My Journey Through Music, Snowboarding, and Social Media
My name is Xizi Li, and I’m from China. I’m currently pursuing a Doctorate in Bassoon Performance at the University of Minnesota. But beyond being a bassoonist, I’m also a snowboarder and a content creator. My life has been a journey of exploration, and I’ve always believed:
“Just do it first—who knows? It might just work out!”
🎵 My Musical Journey: From Piano to Bassoon
As a child, my mother noticed that I could sing back melodies after hearing them once, so she believed I had a strong musical sense and encouraged me to learn music. I started playing the piano when I was four and always thought I would become a pianist. But as I was preparing for college, my teacher told me that the competition in piano was incredibly intense and suggested I switch to another major. That’s when I was introduced to the bassoon.
Even though it was a late transition, I quickly fell in love with the instrument and was accepted into the Wuhan Conservatory of Music. During my undergraduate years, I was influenced by many of my peers who pursued further studies abroad, which sparked my own desire to study in the U.S.
🛤 Overcoming Language Barriers & Challenges During the Pandemic
Once I started preparing, I realized it was much harder than I had expected. I took the IELTS exam six times, but my scores were still not ideal. Then, just as I was about to apply to schools, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Many people advised me to wait another year before going abroad, but I saw this as the perfect opportunity to focus on my studies without distractions. Eventually, I was accepted into Indiana University, where I first completed a Performer’s Diploma and later earned my Master’s degree.
📹 Social Media: A New Adventure During a Quiet Life
Life at Indiana University was fulfilling musically, but outside of that, the city was small, and entertainment options were limited. To keep myself engaged, I started experimenting with social media, filming videos about my experiences studying abroad and playing the bassoon.
Unexpectedly, my content resonated with many Chinese viewers, and my audience grew. Now, I have over 30,000 followers! What truly moves me is receiving messages from people saying they admire my life and that my journey has inspired them. That’s when I realized how powerful sharing can be.
🏂 My Passion for Snowboarding: Breaking Mental Barriers
Besides music, I fell in love with snowboarding. Every winter break, I would drive an hour and a half to the nearest ski resort. Eventually, I started exploring terrain park snowboarding, where I met a great community of friends.
But like many beginners, I struggled with mental barriers at first. Standing in front of an obstacle, I would freeze, fearing that I would fall. But the thing about snowboarding is that you have to push yourself—over and over—until one day, you finally land a new trick.
That moment, when the adrenaline rushes through you, is incredible! I realized that this feeling is the same as performing music—when you practice a difficult piece for months and finally play it perfectly in a concert, the sense of accomplishment is exactly the same.
Both music and snowboarding require patience. If you take it step by step, don’t rush, and stay persistent, the progress will come.
🎷 Coming to Minnesota: Jazz, Snowboarding, and New Challenges
After completing my studies at Indiana University, I learned about Professor Fei Xie, a fantastic bassoonist and teacher. I knew I wanted to study with him, so I applied to the University of Minnesota for my doctoral degree.
When I arrived, I fell in love with this city. Some places just have a certain energy, and I felt that everything here flowed smoothly and made me happy. I never expected that coming to this school would open the door to jazz for me. During my audition, my professor told me he had been teaching here for over a decade and had never seen a bassoonist play jazz before—he was incredibly excited! I started playing in jazz ensembles, something I had never imagined myself doing, and it has been one of the most exciting experiences of my musical journey.
But what made Minnesota even more special was its amazing snowboarding scene! The park culture here is even better than what I experienced in Indiana, and the best part? The ski resort is only 20 minutes away! Since everything seemed to align perfectly, I thought, “Why not challenge myself and get a snowboarding instructor certification?”
So, I started training. And just a short while ago, I officially became a certified instructor!
💡 Final Thoughts: Just Do It—Who Knows? It Might Work Out!
From music to snowboarding, from social media to jazz, I’ve always been open to trying new things. I don’t let fear hold me back because I truly believe:
“Just do it first—who knows? It might just work out!”
Of course, I’m incredibly grateful to my parents, who have always supported my choices and believed in me. Their trust has given me the confidence to make bold decisions and challenge myself in ways I never thought possible.
Whether on stage, on the slopes, or in front of a camera, I want to keep sharing my journey and inspiring others to explore their own passions with courage and curiosity.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
🛤 Overcoming Language Barriers & Challenges During the Pandemic
Once I started preparing, I realized it was much harder than I had expected. I took the IELTS exam six times, but my scores were still not ideal. Then, just as I was about to apply to schools, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Many people advised me to wait another year before going abroad, but I saw this as the perfect opportunity to focus on my studies without distractions. Eventually, I was accepted into Indiana University, where I first completed a Performer’s Diploma and later earned my Master’s degree.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
music student
social media influencer
snowbording instructor
photographer
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
From music to snowboarding, from social media to jazz, I’ve always been open to trying new things. I don’t let fear hold me back because I truly believe:
“Just do it first—who knows? It might just work out!”
Of course, I’m incredibly grateful to my parents, who have always supported my choices and believed in me. Their trust has given me the confidence to make bold decisions and challenge myself in ways I never thought possible.
Whether on stage, on the slopes, or in front of a camera, I want to keep sharing my journey and inspiring others to explore their own passions with courage and curiosity.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiko.liii/
- Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@Kikoplaysbassoon
