We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Xuefei Liu a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Xuefei , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Finding my purpose through music is a long and non-linear journey. I didn’t start music because of a personal calling–I started because my parents put me into piano lessons while I was six years old. Growing up in a non-musical family, where none of my relatives were professional musicians, I never imagined that music would become my life’s purpose. Nonetheless, my family had a deep appreciation for classical music. My father always played classical recordings in our home, filling the space with the sounds of great composers. One of my earliest and most vivid memories is hearing Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake. My grandparents, who had studied in Moscow, would tell me stories about seeing the ballet at the famous Bolshoi Theatre. Though I was too young to fully grasp the depth of the music, the imagery of the ballet and grandeur of their experience fascinated me. Looking back, that was my first real emotional connection to music–it was more than just sound; it carried history, storytelling, and personal meaning.
At first, I approached piano the way many children do–practicing because I had to, progressing through lessons and exams. But as I grew older, music because something more than a routine. The moment I truly realized that music was what I wanted to do with my life happened when I went to France for my first international competition. I was 17 and it was first time I traveled by myself to a foreign country without my parents. I was surrounded by young musicians from all over the world, each bringing their own cultural background, their own interpretation, and their own passion for music. Being in that environment opened my eyes to what music could be: a universal language that connects people across borders. The entire experience–competing, performing, and sharing music with others–made me feel, for the first time, that this was where I belonged. I wasn’t just playing because I was told to–I was playing because I loved it, because I wanted to grow as a musician and share music with others.
From that point on, my perspective on music changed. It was no longer just about perfecting pieces or passing exams–it became about expression, connection, and lifelong discovery. As I pursued my studies in the United States, my purpose in music evolved. Besides performing, I started teaching, I discovered another side of music that was just as fulfilling. Helping students navigate their own musical journeys, seeing their growth, and sharing in their breakthroughs gave me a sense of responsibility and purpose that performance alone could not.
Similarly, I work as a collaborative pianist–accompanying vocalists, instrumentalists, and opera productions. These experiences deepened my understanding of music as a shared experience. It wasn’t just about playing my part; it was about listening, supporting, and shaping music together with others.
Looking back, I realize that my purpose in music was never a single defining moment but rather a journey of discovery. What started as a childhood activity became my profession, and now my mission is to inspire others through performance, education, and mentorship. I found my purpose not just in playing the piano, but in using music to connect, teach, and create meaningful experiences for others.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As a pianist, educator, and music director, my work revolves around performance, teaching, and artistic collaboration. I was born in Chengdu, China, the hometown of hotpot and pandas! I started playing the piano at the age of six. When I was 18, I moved to the United States to further my education and immerse myself in a more diverse musical environment. I earned my Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Eastern New Mexico University, a Master of Music from the Manhattan School of Music, and a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Houston.
I am passionate about bridging cultures through music, whether through solo and chamber performances, collaborative projects, or mentoring the next generation of musicians. One of the most exciting aspects of my career is performing with the Ponce Project Music Foundation, where their mission is to resuscitate the great Latin American classical music. It provides opportunities for artists to engage with new and underrepresented repertoire. Additionally, I enjoy working as a collaborative pianist, particularly in vocal and operatic settings, where music becomes a shared storytelling experience.
Beyond performance, I find deep fulfillment in teaching and mentoring. Whether coaching students in piano technique, interpretation, or collaborative playing, I strive to nurture their artistic identity and equip them with the skills for a sustainable music career.
Currently, I am involved in several exciting projects, including upcoming chamber music performance with the Texas New Music Festival, and hosting the 3rd edition of International Ponce Project Piano Competition. I look forward to continuing to inspire, perform, and contribute to the musical community.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities that have been most impactful are resilience, adaptability, and collaboration.
Resilience has been essential in navigating the challenges of a career in music. Moving from China to the U.S. at 18, competing internationally, and building a career in a highly competitive field all required perseverance. There were times when progress felt slow or opportunities seemed out of reach, but staying committed and pushing forward made all the difference. My advice to young musicians is to embrace setbacks as part of growth and never lose sight of their passion.
Adaptability has allowed me to thrive in different roles–whether as a solo pianist, a collaborative artist, or an educator. Studying in different countries and working in diverse musical settings taught me to be flexible and open-minded. The music world is constantly evolving, and the ability to learn, adjust, and take on new challenges is crucial. For those early in their journey, I encourage stepping outside of their comfort zone–explore different musical styles, work with different musicians, and be open to new experiences.
Collaboration is at the heart of music. Whether accompanying a vocalist, playing in a chamber ensemble, or directing a music program, I have learned that making music is about connection. Understanding how to listen, communicate, and work as a team enhances not only musical performances but also professional relationships. I advise young musicians to actively seek out collaborative opportunities, as they offer some of the most rewarding experiences in music.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
As a musician, the pressure to perform at a high level constantly can sometimes be overwhelming. Over the years, I’ve realized that it’s important to allow myself the space to step back and recharge when things get too intense. Taking time off from practicing or performing–whether it’s a day or a few hours–going outside, taking a walk, meeting a friend, helps me reset and come back with a clearer mind and renewed energy. I’ve also learned not to be too hard on myself, especially when facing setbacks or challenges. It’s natural to have moments of doubt, but I remind myself that it’s okay to take things one step at a time. This balance has been key in maintaining my passion for music without burning out.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liuxuefeifeifei/
- Linkedin: https://www.instagram.com/liuxuefeifeifei/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChTmhNBpUv3x5uLGI2l1kvQ
Image Credits
Julian Sierra
Ponce Project Music Foundation
Vivo Professional Music School
Houston Grand Opera
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
