Pleasant Valley High School is filled with a variety of talented and passionate artists and musicians who shine in their fields. One of these musicians is sophomore Christina Li.
Playing the piano for nearly ten years and violin for six, Li can be described as a dedicated instrumentalist. She is involved with the PV orchestra as well as the Quad City Youth Symphony as a violinist and has participated in many different competitions and festivals for piano.
Through her dedication and passion, Li has won many IMTA (Iowa Music Teacher Association) competitions and has earned two State IMTA titles in 2016 and 2018 for her piano playing skills.
Li was also a member of the All-State Orchestra; this is yet another accomplishment in her long list of accolades. As a sophomore, she has already attended this prestigious honors orchestra twice (both times as a first violin player).
“It’s rewarding to see where all the time I spend practicing goes,” Li stated when asked how her accomplishments have shaped her as a musician.
Li practices anywhere from one to five hours every day because she believes that “in order to attain success in music, one must practice a lot.” Li wants to continue striving for success in music because music is a big part of her life. “Music allows for self expression and teaches discipline and hard work. It is something that I love, and it has taught me many life lessons as well.”
Even through the eyes of her fellow peers, Li’s passion for music is evident. “She genuinely cares about music. She works very hard both in and out of orchestra as well as in all her other musical involvements,” fellow violinist Annie Warner stated.
From PV orchestra and Youth Symphony to piano competitions and festivals, one might wonder how Li stays motivated. She stated that she “[has] made friends who continuously support and challenge me to do well.” Li can always be spotted surrounded by friends at the various music events she is a part of.
While Li spends many hours staying involved musically, she still finds time to stay involved with other activities at PV. Li is currently a member of the rowing team and is also an active member of Spartan Assembly.
Li’s dedication both in the musical and extracurricular fields demonstrates her commitment to excellence. Her literal embodiment of PV’s mantra makes her an excellent role model for all students.
