Violinist, Educator, and Studio Teacher

Ruoyao Li is a Cleveland-based violinist and educator recognized for his refined musicianship, technical excellence, and thoughtful approach to teaching. As both an active professional orchestral musician and dedicated educator, he brings real-world performance experience into every lesson, helping students develop the skills, confidence, and artistry needed to succeed both on and off the stage.

Li earned both his Master of Music and Artist Diploma in Violin Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music, where he studied under internationally renowned violinists Ilya Kaler and Olga Kaler. His conservatory training, combined with extensive professional performance experience, has shaped a teaching philosophy centered on technical excellence, musical expression, disciplined practice, and lifelong artistic growth.

An active performer throughout Northeast Ohio, Li has performed with the Erie Philharmonic, Canton Symphony Orchestra, Akron Symphony Orchestra, Youngstown Symphony Orchestra, CityMusic Cleveland Chamber Orchestra, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, and other professional ensembles. His artistry has also been featured at internationally recognized festivals, including the Bowdoin International Music Festival, Keshet Eilon International String Mastercourse, InterHarmony International Music Festival, and the Shanghai International String Festival.

As an educator, Li teaches students of all ages and experience levels, from young beginners discovering the violin for the first time to advanced musicians preparing for Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra (COYO) auditions, competitions, conservatory admissions, and professional orchestra auditions. His teaching emphasizes building a solid technical foundation, developing healthy and efficient playing habits, cultivating expressive artistry, and encouraging independent musical thinking. Every lesson is carefully tailored to each student's individual goals, learning style, and musical aspirations.

Li's students have earned membership in the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra (COYO), served as Assistant Principal Second Violin of the Cinematic Symphony Youth Orchestra, and received top honors in the American Young Artists Competition (AYAC) and the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) State Solo & Ensemble Adjudicated Events. In addition to maintaining an active private studio, he has coached both the Akron Symphony Youth Orchestra and the Canton Symphony Youth Orchestra, helping young musicians strengthen their orchestral skills, musical confidence, and artistic maturity.

Drawing upon his experience as a professional performer, Li believes that learning the violin extends beyond technical proficiency. His goal is to help every student become a thoughtful, confident, and expressive musician while fostering discipline, creativity, and a genuine love of music. Whether working with a child taking their first lesson, an adult returning to the instrument, or an aspiring conservatory student, he is committed to creating a supportive and inspiring environment where every student can achieve their highest potential.

Li currently maintains an active performance and teaching career throughout the Greater Cleveland area and welcomes students of all ages and levels who are passionate about developing their artistry through personalized, high-quality violin instruction.