FAQ: Shuying Li's Landmark Wind Ensemble Album with RMN Classical

What is this album about and who is Shuying Li?

This is a landmark album featuring wind ensemble works by internationally acclaimed composer Shuying Li, an award-winning composer known for creating bold, emotionally charged music that blends rich colors with compelling storytelling.

When was the album released and where can I find it?

The album was released on Friday, October 3, 2025, by UK label RMN Classical and is available worldwide on all major streaming platforms.

What ensembles and conductors are featured on this album?

The album features performances by the Baylor Wind Ensemble under J. Eric Wilson, ‘The President’s Own’ United States Marine Band under Jason Fettig, Arizona State University Wind Ensemble under Jason Caslor, Illinois Wind Symphony under Kevin M. Geraldi, Eastman Wind Orchestra under Luke Camarillo, and Foot in the Door Ensemble under Glen Adsit.

What are the specific compositions included in this album?

The album includes In This Breath (2025), Luminance (2023), Starry Ocean (2024), Kung Fu (2019), Slippery Slope, and The Last Hive Mind (2018), spanning nearly a decade of Li’s compositional career.

Why is this album significant in Shuying Li’s career?

This album captures Li’s journey from personal tragedy to creative triumph, with In This Breath marking her return to composing after grief and The Last Hive Mind representing the beginnings of her creative voice, creating bookends that chart her artistic development.

How does this album reflect Shuying Li’s personal experiences?

The album reflects Li’s personal journey, particularly with In This Breath being written during a period of profound grief and serving as both an elegy and rebirth, born from personal tragedy.

What makes Shuying Li’s music distinctive according to the conductors?

Conductors praise Li’s music as viscerally engaging, endlessly colorful, exceptionally expressive with vibrant instrumental color, detailed craft, and the ability to create compelling soundscapes that take listeners on wonderful journeys.

How does the album incorporate cultural elements?

In Kung Fu (2019), Li merges cultural tradition with universal ideals by capturing the spirit and philosophy of her Chinese culture with an aspiration for a harmonious society.

What is unique about the recording approach for this album?

The album captures the unfiltered energy of live performance, infused with breath, adrenaline, and spirit, as noted by Li herself in her reflections on the release.

Who produced this album and what is RMN Classical?

The album was produced by Rick Romano and released by UK label RMN Classical, though no additional details about the label are provided in the content.