The USA International Harp Competition, Inc. (USAIHC) has appointed Mei Li as its new executive director, effective August 1. Li is replacing Moya Wright, who served as executive director of the USAIHC from 2003–2005 and again from 2020–2023. In a press release, the USAIHC says, “During [Wright’s] time as executive director, she managed two highly successful competitions, as well as elevated the competition’s infrastructure through securing new grant funding, introduced video streaming concerts featuring our laureates, expanded the Harp Start educational program, initiated an Ambassador program for high school students, and greatly increased our social media presence.”
Li is the co-founder and CEO of the Chicago International Music Competition and Festival (CIMC) and the International Director of the American Liszt Society. She has over 10 years’ experience working for both nonprofit and for-profit organizations in China and the U.S., building partnerships with aspirational competitions, festivals, and orchestras.
USAIHC president Joyce Claflin says of Li’s appointment, “Mei is uniquely qualified for this position, with an impressive record of accomplishments as an arts administrator and professional musician. We welcome her as we move forward in planning the 2025 13th solo harp competition, in conducting our USAIHC Ruth Inglefield Composition Contest, in promoting our Concert Series and in presenting our educational programs Harp Start and our Ambassador program.”
Li holds a doctorate in piano performance and piano literature from the University of Kansas. She was born in Chengdu, China, into a musical family and has won awards at five international piano competitions. As an active pianist and soloist in China, Li performed at major venues such as the Hong Kong Concert Hall, Guangzhou Xinghai Concert Hall, and Shenzhen Concert Hall. In the United States, Li was invited to perform as a soloist at the World Conference on Women in Chicago, the renowned Chicago Cultural Center, and Carnegie Hall in New York City.
For more information, visit the USAIHC website.
