Zhenyan Li is a Chinese composer based in London. Her works are inspired by theatrical elements, especially the performing style of traditional oriental theatre. Li has been commissioned by the Chinese Oriental Ensemble of Beijing, Manson Ensemble, Trio Estatico, and Barcelona Modern Ensemble. As an active collaborator, she has worked on projects with The Architectural Association, London Film School, Leeds Lieder Festival, and SOAS University of London. She has worked with writer David Alfred, artists Toby Tobias and Lulu Wang, percussionist Beibei Wang, and conductors Martin Rajna and Jessica Cottis. Her opera Cummings & Goerings was premiered as part of the Tête à Tête Festival. Other projects include works for the International Guitar Society, Central School of Ballet, Psappha Ensemble and Lucerne Festival.
Li is also an active Chinese flute player, which she teaches at UCL. She is a member of the London Chinese Opera Studio founded by Chinese opera singer Kathy Hall and they have performed at the SOAS University of London and the Garden Museum. She is also a PhD student at the Academy, studying with Philip Cashian and David Sawer.