View source for Yundi

{{short description|Chinese pianist (born 1982)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2020}}
{{family name hatnote|[[Li (surname 李)|Li]] ({{noitalic|{{linktext|lang=zh|李}}}})|lang=Chinese}}
{{Infobox person
| name               = Yundi Li
| native_name        = {{nobold|李云迪}}
| image              = Yundi in 2019, with Steinway Piano (cropped).jpg
| caption            = Yundi in 2019
| birth_date         = {{birth date and age|df=yes|1982|10|7}}
| birth_place        = [[Chongqing]], [[Sichuan]], China<!--do NOT remove Sichuan. At the time Chongqing was still a part of Sichuan Province-->
| death_date         = <!-- {{Death date and age|df=yes|YYYY|MM|DD|YYYY|MM|DD}} (enter DEATH date then BIRTH date (e.g., ...|1967|8|31|1908|2|28}} use both this parameter and |birth_date to display the person's date of birth, date of death, and age at death) -->
| death_place        =
| alma_mater         = {{flatlist|
* Shenzhen Arts School
* [[Hochschule für Musik, Theater und Medien Hannover|Hochschule für Musik Hannover]]
}}
| years_active       = 1994–present
| occupation         = Pianist
| awards             = First Prize at [[XIV International Chopin Piano Competition|14th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition]] (2000)
| honours =  [[File:POL Srebrny Medal Zasłużony Kulturze Gloria Artis BAR.png|40px|Silver [[Medal for Merit to Culture – Gloria Artis]]]]  [[File:POL Złoty Medal Zasłużony Kulturze Gloria Artis BAR.png|40px|Gold [[Medal for Merit to Culture – Gloria Artis]]]]
| signature          =
| module             = {{infobox musical artist
| embed       = yes
| genre       = [[Classical music|Classical]]
| instrument  = Piano
| label       =  {{flatlist|
* [[Deutsche Grammophon]]
* [[EMI Classics]]
* [[Warner Classics]]}}
| website      = {{URL|https://www.warnerclassics.com/artist/yundi}}
}}
}}
'''Yundi Li''' ({{zh|s=李云迪|t=李雲迪|p=Lǐ Yúndí}}; born 7 October 1982), also known [[mononym]]ously as '''Yundi''' (stylized as '''YUNDI'''), is a [[Chinese people|Chinese]] classical concert pianist. Yundi is especially known for his interpretation of [[Chopin]], [[Liszt]] and [[Prokofiev]]. He is also referred as a ''Master in Chopin'' and considered one of the greatest contemporary interpreters of Chopin.
Yundi rose to fame for being the youngest pianist, at the age of eighteen, to win first prize at the [[XIV International Chopin Piano Competition|International Chopin Piano Competition]] in 2000. In 2015, he also served as the [[XVII International Chopin Piano Competition|competition’s]] youngest-ever juror. In recognition to his contribution to [[Chopin]] pieces, the Polish government awarded Yundi with the world's first Chopin passport (''Chopinowskie paszporty''). Yundi is also the first Chinese recipient of both Silver (2010) and Gold (2019) [[Medal for Merit to Culture - Gloria Artis ]] issued by the [[Ministry of Culture and National Heritage (Poland)|Ministry of Culture and National Heritage]] of [[Polish government]], in regards to his contribution to both music and Polish culture.
Yundi has promoted [[Music of China|Chinese national music]] worldwide, as well as the development of [[classical music]] in China, both by his influence and philanthropy.
==Early life and education==
Yundi Li was born in [[Chongqing]], Sichuan, China on 7 October 1982.<ref name="AllMusic">{{cite web |last=Cummings |first=Robert |title=Yundi Li |publisher=[[AllMusic]] |url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/yundi-li-mn0002209910/biography |access-date=29 April 2022 |archive-date=29 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220429193656/https://www.allmusic.com/artist/yundi-li-mn0002209910/biography |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Lee2001">{{cite web |last=Lee |first=Alan |date=18 January 2001 |title=Champion pianist inspires students at exchange forum |publisher=[[South China Morning Post]] |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/337077/champion-pianist-inspires-students-exchange-forum |access-date=5 May 2024 }} {{subscription required}}</ref> Both his father, Li Chuan ({{lang|zh-Hant|李川}}), and his mother, Zhang Xiaolu ({{lang|zh-Hant|张小鲁}}), worked for the [[Chongqing Iron and Steel Company]].<ref>{{cite web |title=李云迪的铁腕母亲张小鲁："家长的毅力就是孩子的动力。"  |trans-title=Zhang Xiaolu, Li Yundi’s iron-fisted mother: “The perseverance of parents is the motivation of their children.”|publisher=[[Sohu]] |language=Chinese |url=https://www.sohu.com/a/341160224_120190981 |access-date=5 May 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Chan |first=Vivien Pik-Kwan |date=21 October 2000|title=Shenzhen pianist shows forte |newspaper=[[South China Morning Post]] |page=5 |location=Hong Kong}}</ref> Although his family was not musically inclined, he began a formal [[music education]] at a very young age. At age three, he was so enchanted by an [[accordion]] performance at a shopping mall that he refused to leave.<ref>{{cite news|last=Bargreen|first=Melinda|date=April 10, 2005|title=Piano prodigy loves what he is doing, as his brilliance attests|url=https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/piano-prodigy-loves-what-he-is-doing-as-his-brilliance-attests/|work=[[Seattle Times]]|access-date=6 February 2024|archive-date=6 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206023139/https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/piano-prodigy-loves-what-he-is-doing-as-his-brilliance-attests/|url-status=live}}</ref> His parents subsequently bought him an accordion; he studied with Tan Jianmin, a local music teacher, he learned the instrument so quickly that he won the top prize at the Chongiqing Children's Accordion Competition in March 1987.<ref name="Yomiuri">{{cite news| last =Kishinami| first =Yukiko| title =Piano prodigy restores luster to Chopin competition| page =1|work=[[Daily Yomiuri]]| date =May 3, 2001}}</ref>
Yundi began studying piano with Wu Yong at the age of seven. Two years later, Wu introduced him to [[Dan Zhaoyi]], a well-known piano teacher, with whom he would study for nine years.<ref name="Globe">{{cite news| last =Eatock| first =Colin| title =Pianist as pop star. Is Yundi Li better than Lang Lang? He says he doesn't care| page =R1| work =Globe and Mail| location =Canada| date =February 13, 2008| url =https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/pianist-as-pop-star/article1051260/| access-date =March 30, 2016| archive-date =1 August 2016| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20160801070914/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/pianist-as-pop-star/article1051260/| url-status =live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Artistic Director |publisher=CSIPCC Organizing Committee Office |url=https://www.csipcc.com.cn/about-us/artistic-director/ |access-date=5 May 2024 }}</ref> In 1994, Yundi enrolled at the {{ill|深圳藝術學校|zh|lt=Shenzhen Arts School}} to join Dan, who had recently taken up a position there, with whom he studied for the next six years.<ref>{{cite web |title=特写："钢琴神童"李云迪震惊世界的背后 |url=https://ent.sina.com.cn/s/m/32532.html |website=新浪网 |publisher=生活时报 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010223215021/https://ent.sina.com.cn/s/m/32532.html |archive-date=23 Feb 2001 |language=chinese |date=12 Feb 2001|trans-title=Close-up: Behind the scenes of "piano prodigy" Yundi Li who shocked the world}}</ref> Yundi attracted interest from renowned schools of music, including the [[Eastman School of Music]] and [[Juilliard School]],<ref name="okla">{{cite web |title=Piano Prodigy To Visit|url=https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/1999/06/28/piano-prodigy-to-visit/62237430007/ |publisher=[[The Oklahoman]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402071546/https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/1999/06/28/piano-prodigy-to-visit/62237430007/ |archive-date=2 April 2024 |date=28 June 1999 |url-status=live}}</ref> and was invited to study at the latter by [[Jerome Lowenthal]].<ref name="book">{{cite book |title=但昭义钢琴艺术人生 |date=1 November 2011 |publisher=上海音乐出版社 |page=153|language=zh|trans-title=Dan Zhaoyi's Life for the Art of Piano|isbn=9787807518730}}</ref> Later, he studied under [[Arie Vardi]] at the [[Hochschule für Musik, Theater und Medien Hannover]] in [[Hannover]], Germany, from 2001 to 2006.<ref>{{cite web |title=Arie Vardi: An artist's only competition is against himself |url=http://www.szdaily.com/content/2011-11/03/content_6199718.htm |publisher=[[Shenzhen Daily]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120727214745/http://www.szdaily.com/content/2011-11/03/content_6199718.htm |archive-date=27 July 2012 |date=3 November 2011}}</ref>
== Career ==
===Signing with Deutsche Grammophon===
Yundi has gained international recognition since his victory in 2000 [[XIV International Chopin Piano Competition]], as he became the first competitor to be awarded the First Prize in 15 years since [[Stanislav Bunin]] won it in 1985,<ref name="competitions">{{cite web |title=Teen's Golden Note |url=http://edition.cnn.com/ASIANOW/asiaweek/magazine/2000/1103/as.people.html |website=[[CNN]] |publisher=[[AsianWeek]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110131153428/http://edition.cnn.com/ASIANOW/asiaweek/magazine/2000/1103/as.people.html |archive-date=31 January 2011 |date=3 November 2000}}</ref> as well as the youngest and first Chinese first-prize winner.<ref name="ch c">{{cite web |title=Winner of Chopin Competition 2000: Yundi Li - first time in California |url=https://polishmusic.usc.edu/newsletter/2001/july-2001/ |website=Polish Music Center |access-date=28 February 2022 |archive-date=13 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220613185733/https://polishmusic.usc.edu/newsletter/2001/july-2001/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Since then, he has collaborated with leading orchestras worldwide, including the [[Berlin Philharmonic|Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra]],<ref name="ber">{{cite web |title=EditorsChoice: Prokofiev Piano Concerto No 2, Op 16 Ravel Piano Concerto |url=https://gramophone.net/Issue/Page/May%202008/79/746668/Prokofiev%E2%80%A2Ravel%2BProkafiev%2BPiano%2BConcerto%2BNo%2B2%2C%2BOp%2B16%2BRavel%2BPiano%2BConcerto |publisher=[[Gramophone (magazine)|Gramophone]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100125030513/https://gramophone.net/Issue/Page/May%202008/79/746668/Prokofiev%E2%80%A2Ravel+Prokafiev+Piano+Concerto+No+2%2C+Op+16+Ravel+Piano+Concerto |archive-date=25 January 2010 |date=May 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> the [[Leipzig Gewandhausorchester]], [[Mahler Chamber Orchestra]] and [[Philharmonia Orchestra]].<ref name="bi">{{cite web |title=Yundi Biography |url=https://www.deutschegrammophon.com/en/artists/yundi/biography |website=Deutsche Grammophon |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127123657/https://www.deutschegrammophon.com/en/artists/yundi/biography |archive-date=27 November 2020}}</ref>
In 2001, Yundi became the first Chinese pianist signed by [[Deutsche Grammophon]] (DG) for which he exclusively recorded until November 2008. On the DG label he released his first album ''Yundi Li: Chopin'' released on its label. The CD was first released in Japan and warmly welcomed.<ref name="Prize Winning Pianist Releases CD">{{cite web |title=Prize Winning Pianist Releases CD |url=http://www.china.org.cn/english/MATERIAL/24235.htm |website=China.org.cn |access-date=11 April 2022 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304055414/http://www.china.org.cn/english/MATERIAL/24235.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> In their review of the album, the ''[[Gramophone magazine]]'' stated that "[…] his unequivocal triumph is faithfully mirrored on his DG début album in performance after performance. Everything is naturally and enviably proportioned (a rare but necessary attribute in the everelusive Chopin)‚ everything fuelled alike by a style and poise way beyond his teenage years […]”<ref>{{cite web |title=Chopin Piano Works |url=https://www.gramophone.co.uk/review/chopin-piano-works-74 |website=Gramophone |access-date=7 October 2022 |archive-date=7 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007190743/https://www.gramophone.co.uk/review/chopin-piano-works-74 |url-status=live }}</ref>
Yundi made his [[Carnegie Hall]] debut to great acclaim in June 2003, performing in a concert celebrating the 150th Anniversary of [[Steinway & Sons]]. [[Bernard Holland]] of ''[[The New York Times]]'' wrote that: "Yundi Li, a young but seasoned competition gladiator, played [[Chopin]] and [[Liszt]] with a promising mix of elegance and impetuosity."<ref name="AllMusic"/><ref name="chopin and liszt">{{cite web |title=MUSIC REVIEW; A Tribute Not to Artists But to the Piano They Play |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/06/09/arts/music-review-a-tribute-not-to-artists-but-to-the-piano-they-play.html |website=[[The New York Times]] |access-date=14 August 2022 |archive-date=14 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220814190001/https://www.nytimes.com/2003/06/09/arts/music-review-a-tribute-not-to-artists-but-to-the-piano-they-play.html |url-status=live }}</ref> His United States orchestral debut took place the next month, when he played Chopin's [[Piano Concerto No. 1 (Chopin)|Piano Concerto No. 1]] with the [[Philadelphia Orchestra]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Li Yundi |publisher=The Kennedy Center |location=Washington, D.C. |access-date=19 May 2020 |url=https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/y/yo-yz/li-yundi/ |archive-date=8 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240208051651/https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/y/yo-yz/li-yundi/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
He was also honoured at a special reception at the home of the Chinese Ambassador to the United States, where he performed for various officials of the [[US State Department]].<ref name="US">{{cite web |title=美国名流感受中国"钢琴王子"李云迪风采 |url=https://ent.sina.com.cn/2003-07-20/1101173517.html |publisher=中国新闻网 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030801132442/https://ent.sina.com.cn/2003-07-20/1101173517.html |archive-date=1 Aug 2003 |language=chinese |date=20 July 2003|trans-title=American gentry experience the style of China's "Piano Prince" Li Yundi}}</ref>
Deutsche Grammophon released Yundi's second recording, of Liszt, in August 2003, which was named among the "Best Classical CD's of the Year" by ''The New York Times''.<ref name="NY Times">{{cite web |author1=Allan Kozinn|title=The Best Classical CD's of 2003; Liszt: Piano Sonata In B Minor; Other Works |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/21/arts/the-best-classical-cd-s-of-2003-liszt-piano-sonata-in-b-minor-other-works.html |work=The New York Times |access-date=15 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101122105326/https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/21/arts/the-best-classical-cd-s-of-2003-liszt-piano-sonata-in-b-minor-other-works.html |archive-date=22 November 2010 |date=21 December 2003}}</ref> This album also won the German [[Echo Klassik]] Solo Recording of the Year ''Solistische Einspielung des Jahres'', the Chinese Gold Record Award, and nominated [[Edison Award|Edison Award's]] Instrumental Soloist (''Instrumentale Solorecitals'').<ref>{{cite web |title=My first choice is Steinway |url=https://www.steinway.com/artists/yundi-li |website=Steinway & Sons |access-date=13 February 2022 |archive-date=13 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220213140414/https://www.steinway.com/artists/yundi-li |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name ="Edison">{{cite web |title=Nominaties Edison Classical Music Awards 2004 |url=https://www.opusklassiek.nl/actueel-archief/edisonklassieknominaties2004.htm |website=OpusKlassiek |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603134948/https://www.opusklassiek.nl/actueel-archief/edisonklassieknominaties2004.htm |archive-date=3 June 2016 |language=nl |date=24 March 2004 |url-status=live}}</ref> Of this recording, [[Harris Goldsmith]] of ''[[Musical America]]'' wrote that it "[...] includes perhaps the finest account of the [[Piano Sonata in B minor (Liszt)|B-minor Sonata]] I have ever heard— [it] is, if anything, light years ahead in patrician elegance: exquisite artistry from one of the greatest talents to surface in years—nay, decades."<ref>{{cite web |title=Young Artists: The Thrill of Discovery |url=https://www.musicalamerica.com/features/?fid=98&fyear=2004 |website=MusicalAmerica |access-date=14 March 2022 |archive-date=11 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220611124344/https://www.musicalamerica.com/features/?fid=98&fyear=2004 |url-status=live }}</ref> His third recording ''Chopin: Scherzi/Impromptus'', comprising Chopin's four [[Scherzo|scherzi]] and three [[impromptu]]s, was released in late 2004. [[Anthony Tommasini]] of the ''New York Times'' praised this recording for Yundi's "white-hot virtuosity" and "uncanny clarity".<ref>{{cite web |title=Classical Music: Classical Recordings |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/01/16/arts/classical-music-classical-recordings-105643.html |website=The New York Times |last=Tommasini |first=Anthony |date=16 January 2005 |access-date=28 February 2022 |archive-date=28 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220228175529/https://www.nytimes.com/2005/01/16/arts/classical-music-classical-recordings-105643.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Also in 20014, he gave a recital in the [[Musikverein]], Vienna, performing works by [[Mozart]], [[Domenico Scarlatti|Scarlatti]], [[Robert Schumann|Schumann]], and Liszt.<ref name="first world tour">{{cite web |author1=赵蕾 |title=首次安排完整世界巡演计划 李云迪：从上海启程 |url=https://www.chinanews.com.cn/n/2004-01-13/26/391069.html |publisher=中國新聞網 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040117024118/http://www.chinanews.com.cn/n/2004-01-13/26/391069.html |archive-date=17 Jan 2004 |language=Chinese |date=13 Jan 2004|trans-title=Arranging a complete world tour plan for the first time, Yundi Li: Starting from Shanghai}}</ref>
Yundi completed his North American debut recital tour in April 2004 which included sold-out performances in Boston, Vancouver, San Francisco and New York.<ref>{{cite web |title=Li Yundi |url=https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/y/yo-yz/li-yundi/ |website=The Kennedy Center |access-date=19 May 2020 |archive-date=8 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240208051651/https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/y/yo-yz/li-yundi/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He made his New York recital debut at the [[Metropolitan Museum of Art]] on April 24, 2004, performing Chopin scherzos and the Liszt sonata among other pieces. Reviewing this recital, [[Allan Kozinn]] of the ''New York Times'' wrote: "Mr. Li deals in a more poetic, deeply considered pianism, delivered without extraneous gestures and body language. One thing Mr. Li showed was that thoughtful interpretation can be every bit as virtuosic and exciting as the showier variety."<ref>{{cite web |title=Music Review; Pianism at the Poetic End, Not the Physical |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2004/04/28/arts/music-review-pianism-at-the-poetic-end-not-the-physical.html |website=The New York Times |access-date=14 March 2022 |archive-date=14 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220314161126/https://www.nytimes.com/2004/04/28/arts/music-review-pianism-at-the-poetic-end-not-the-physical.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In May of the same year, Yundi had concerts in [[Warsaw National Museum]], representing cultural exchange between [[China]] and [[Poland]].<ref name="speech">{{cite web |title=Wizyta oficjalna Przewodniczącego Chińskiej Republiki Ludowej z Małżonką - oficjalny obiad |url=https://www.prezydent.pl/kancelaria/archiwum/archiwum-aleksandra-kwasniewskiego/aktualnosci/rok-2004/wizyta-oficjalna-przewodniczacego-chinskiej-republiki-ludowej-z-malzonka-oficjalny-obiad,29616,archive |publisher=[[Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland]]|trans-title=Official visit of the Chairman of the People's Republic of China with his wife - official dinner|language=pl |date=8 June 2004}}</ref>
[[File:Yundi Li 2005.jpg|thumb|left|Yundi in 2005]]
In 2005, Yundi became the first Chinese pianist to appear on the cover of [[Wall Street Journal]] and the ''[[Aera (magazine)|Aera]]'' magazine.<ref name="Wall Street Journal">{{cite news |last1=Santini |first1=Laura |title=A Classical Movement In China Gives Pianist Rock-Star Status |newspaper=WSJ |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB112778208940352843 |publisher=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=6 February 2024 |archive-date=6 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206055024/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB112778208940352843 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Yundi |url=https://www.hkphil.org/artist/yundi |website=[[Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321132107/https://www.hkphil.org/artist/yundi |archive-date=21 March 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> He obtained Hong Kong residency in November 2006 and was among the first group of successful applicants under the recently announced [[Quality Migrant Admission Scheme]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Pianist Li Yundi becomes a Hong Kong resident |newspaper=South China Morning Post |page=2 |location=Hong Kong |date=16 January 2007 }}</ref>
In 2007, Yundi became the first Chinese pianist to record live with the [[Berlin Philharmonic|Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra]] and [[Seiji Ozawa]]. Deutsche Grammophon released Prokofiev's [[Piano Concerto No. 2 (Prokofiev)|Piano Concerto No. 2]] and Ravel's [[Piano Concerto in G major (Ravel)|Piano Concerto in G Major]], which garnered positive reviews; it was named Editor’s Choice by [[Gramophone magazine]],<ref name="ber"/> and praised by ''[[The New York Times]]'' as one of the best classical CDs of the year.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pianist Yundi |url=https://www.medici.tv/en/artists/yundi-li/#:~:text=Yundi%20has%20released%20eight%20CDs,Editor's%20Choice'%20by%20Gramophone%20Magazine. |website=medici.tv |access-date=29 April 2022 |archive-date=25 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230325145831/https://www.medici.tv/en/artists/yundi-li/#:~:text=Yundi%20has%20released%20eight%20CDs,Editor's%20Choice'%20by%20Gramophone%20Magazine. |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="AllMusic"/> Bryce Morrison of ''[[Gramophone magazine|Gramophone]]'' reviewed the album: "[...] Indeed, his performance of the Prokofiev, in its prodigious, unflagging power and brilliance, far surpasses any other in the catalogue".<ref>{{cite web |author1=Bryce Morrison |title=Prokofiev Piano Concerto No 2; Ravel Piano Concerto |url=https://www.gramophone.co.uk/review/prokofiev-piano-concerto-no-2-ravel-piano-concerto |publisher=[[Gramophone (magazine)|Gramophone]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306010818/https://www.gramophone.co.uk/review/prokofiev-piano-concerto-no-2-ravel-piano-concerto |archive-date=6 March 2016 |date=May 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref>
Yundi is the subject of a 2008 feature-length documentary, ''The Young Romantic: A Portrait of Yundi'', directed by Barbara Willis Sweete. This documentary "captures the poetic intensity of this young virtuoso as he works with the great Maestro Seiji Ozawa to prepare for his debut with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra"<ref>{{cite web |title=The Young Romantic - A Portrait of Yundi |publisher=Presto Classical |url=http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/EuroArts/3079058 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170109190317/http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/EuroArts/3079058 |archive-date=9 January 2017 |url-status=dead }}</ref>  In 2008, he became the first Chinese pianist to have a wax sculpture by [[Madame Tussauds]].<ref>{{cite web |title=李云迪蜡像揭幕 中国钢琴家进驻"杜莎夫人 |url=https://yule.sohu.com/20080426/n256528428.shtml |publisher=sohu |date=26 April 2008 |access-date=6 February 2024 |archive-date=6 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206060527/https://yule.sohu.com/20080426/n256528428.shtml |url-status=live|trans-title=Li Yundi wax figure unveiled, Chinese pianist stationed at Madame Tussauds}}</ref> Also in 2008, he appeared as a ''Pennington Great Performers'' series artist with the [[Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra]].<ref name="baton">{{cite web |title=Superstar Pianist Shares Stage With Baton Rouge Symphony|url=https://www.225batonrouge.com/article/superstar-pianist-shares-stage-with-baton-rouge-symphony-2 |publisher=225 Magazine |access-date=15 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215074549/https://www.225batonrouge.com/article/superstar-pianist-shares-stage-with-baton-rouge-symphony-2 |archive-date=15 February 2024 |date=1 April 2008}}</ref>
===Signing with EMI Classics===
[[File:The Memory Recital of Chopin's Birth 200th Anniversary Concert, Chopin Year (Chopin and his Europe) 2010.png|thumb|right|Yundi performing at [[The Birthday Decade|the Memory Recital of Chopin's Birth 200th Anniversary Concert]], [[Chopin Year]] 2010]]
In January 2010, Yundi signed an exclusive recording contract with [[EMI Classics]] with plans to record Chopin's complete works for solo piano.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://newswire.scena.org/2010/03/emi-classics-signs-chinese-pianist.html/|title= EMI Classics Signs Chinese Pianist Yundi|access-date= March 22, 2010|date= March 22, 2010|publisher= LSM Newswire |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100731105303/http://newswire.scena.org/2010/03/emi-classics-signs-chinese-pianist.html|archive-date= July 31, 2010|url-status= dead}}</ref>
In March 2010, Yundi was invited by the [[Fryderyk Chopin Institute]] to perform at [[The Birthday Decade|The Memory Recital of Chopin's Birth 200th Anniversary Concert]], in celebration of [[Fryderyk Chopin]]'s 200th Birthday at [[Chopin Year]].<ref>{{cite web |publisher=[[Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland]] |title=Galowy koncert symfoniczny z okazji 200. rocznicy urodzin Fryderyka Chopina |url=https://www.prezydent.pl/kancelaria/archiwum/archiwum-lecha-kaczynskiego/aktualnosci/rok-2010/galowy-koncert-symfoniczny-z-okazji-200-rocznicy-urodzin-fryderyka-chopina,24046,archive|language=Polish |date=1 March 2010|trans-title=Gala symphonic concert on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of Fryderyk Chopin's birth}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Poland Sales Manual Chopin Year 2010 |url=http://www.poland.travel/en/files/PDF/Manual_v2.pdf |website=Poland Travel (EN) PROD |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151009222931/http://www.poland.travel/en/files/PDF/Manual_v2.pdf |archive-date=9 Oct 2015 |pages=28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author1=MICHAEL MORAN |title=Fryderyk Chopin's 200th Birthday |url=http://www.michael-moran.com/2010/03/fryderyk-chopins-200th-birthday.html |website=Classical Music in Poland and the Europe of Chopin - From the Reviewer's Notebook |date=4 March 2010 |access-date=6 February 2024 |archive-date=6 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206171339/http://www.michael-moran.com/2010/03/fryderyk-chopins-200th-birthday.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
Yundi performed a solo recital at the [[Royal Festival Hall]] in London on March 16, 2010. He played a repertoire of Chopin pieces in a sold-out concert.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.london-insider.co.uk/2010/03/review-piano-maestro-li-yundi-royal-festival-hall/|title= Review: Piano Maestro Li Yundi, Royal Festival Hall|access-date= March 18, 2010|date= March 16, 2010|publisher=The London Insider|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100327170020/http://www.london-insider.co.uk/2010/03/review-piano-maestro-li-yundi-royal-festival-hall/|archive-date= March 27, 2010|url-status= dead}}</ref>
===Signing with Deutsche Grammophon again ===
[[File:Yundi.jpg|thumb|left|Yundi performing at the [[St George's Hall, Liverpool|St George's Hall]], April 2013]]
In May 2012, Yundi officially signed with [[Universal Music Group]] and collaborated with Deutsche Grammophon once again.<ref name="gramophone.co.uk"/> Deutsche Grammophon released his recording of Beethoven Sonatas in late 2012.<ref name="gramophone.co.uk">[http://www.gramophone.co.uk/classical-music-news/pianist-yundi-is-back-with-deutsche-grammophon "Pianist Yundi is back with Deutsche Grammophon"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109235246/http://www.gramophone.co.uk/classical-music-news/pianist-yundi-is-back-with-deutsche-grammophon |date=9 November 2018 }}, Gramophone, May 4, 2012</ref> This recording was chosen as one of Classic FM's "Album of the Year 2013" and attained Platinum status in China.<ref>{{cite web |title=Yundi Returns with New Album |url=https://www.musicalamerica.com/news/newsstory.cfm?storyid=31554&categoryid=5&archived=0 |website=MusicalAmerica |access-date=17 February 2022 |archive-date=17 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220217172420/https://www.musicalamerica.com/news/newsstory.cfm?storyid=31554&categoryid=5&archived=0 |url-status=live }}</ref> Yundi then released recordings of Schumann Fantasie, ''The Art of Yundi'', Chopin prelude, and Chopin ballades, berceuse and mazurkas.<ref>[http://www.deutschegrammophon.com/en/cat/result?ART_ID=LIYUN "Yundi Discography"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170106010314/http://www.deutschegrammophon.com/en/cat/result?ART_ID=LIYUN |date=6 January 2017 }}, Deutsche Grammophon</ref>
Yundi launched his "Piano Dream" national tour in his hometown Chongqing on August 19, 2013, and brought his music to 30 cities in the next 80 days. Most of those cities were second or third-tier.<ref>{{cite web |title=Li Yundi launches national tour in Chongqing |url=http://www.china.org.cn/arts/2013-08/20/content_29769435.htm |website=China.org.cn |access-date=21 June 2022 |archive-date=20 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130820122208/http://china.org.cn/arts/2013-08/20/content_29769435.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> In response to questions from the media and the public, Yundi remarked that it was not degrading for him to perform in second and third-tier cities and he didn't mind the less ideal conditions of some concert halls; he simply wanted to provide more people with an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of classical music.<ref>{{cite web |title=Li Yundi: It is not degrading to perform in second and third tier cities (in Chinese) |url=http://ent.sina.com.cn/y/2013-08-02/15433979024.shtml |website=Sina.com.cn |access-date=21 June 2022 |archive-date=7 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240207163018/http://ent.sina.com.cn/y/2013-08-02/15433979024.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref>
[[File:Yundi at 204th anniversary concert of Fryderyk Chopin's birth, with First Lady Anna Komorowska.webp|thumb|right|Yundi with First Lady [[Anna Komorowska]] in 2014]]
On 1 March 2014, Yundi performed a piano recital at the Poland's [[National Philharmonic, Warsaw|National Philharmonic]], celebrating the 204th anniversary of Chopin’s birth. [[Anna Komorowska]], then [[First Lady of Poland]], listened to the concert.<ref name="204 Chopin's anniversary">{{cite web |title=Pierwsza Dama na koncercie z okazji 204. rocznicy urodzin Fryderyka Chopina |url=https://t.prezydent.pl/kancelaria/archiwum/archiwum-bronislawa-komorowskiego/malzonka/kronika/pierwsza-dama-na-koncercie-z-okazji-204-rocznicy-urodzin-fryderyka-chopina,19698 |publisher=[[Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland]] |language=pl |date=1 March 2014|trans-title=The First Lady at a concert celebrating the 204th anniversary of Fryderyk Chopin's birth}}</ref>
In July 2015 and as featured guest soloist, Yundi embarked on a nine-concert tour with the National Youth Orchestra of the United States led by celebrated conductor [[Charles Dutoit]]. Comprising mainly the orchestra’s debut performances in Asia, the tour started at Purchase College’s Performing Arts Center and ended in Hong Kong. Carnegie Hall was the second stop. The other six concerts were given in mainland China.<ref>{{cite web |title=NYO-USA China Tour 2015 |url=https://www.carnegiehall.org/About/Press/Press-Releases/2019/08/22/NYO-USA-China-Tour-1-7-2015 |access-date=29 January 2022 |archive-date=29 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129014105/https://www.carnegiehall.org/About/Press/Press-Releases/2019/08/22/NYO-USA-China-Tour-1-7-2015 |url-status=live }}</ref>
On 30 October of the same year, while performing [[Chopin|Chopin's]] [[Piano Concerto No. 1 (Chopin)|Piano Concerto No. 1]] with the [[Sydney Symphony Orchestra]] in Korea, Yundi suffered a memory lapse.<ref>{{cite web |title=李雲迪為演奏失誤致歉 |url=https://www.cyberctm.com/zh_TW/news/detail/1029788 |publisher=澳門日報 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318054945/https://www.cyberctm.com/zh_TW/news/detail/1029788 |archive-date=18 March 2024 |language=chinese |date=3 November 2015|trans-title=Yundi Li apologizes for performance mistake}}</ref> He subsequently performed the piece smoothly again with conductor [[David Robertson (conductor)|David Robertson]] and the orchestra.<ref name="review">{{cite web |author1=Leta Keens |title=Yundi plays Chopin (Sydney Symphony Orchestra) |url=https://limelight-arts.com.au/reviews/review-yundi-plays-chopin-sydney-symphony-orchestra/ |publisher=[[Limelight (magazine)|Limelight]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240222112402/https://limelight-arts.com.au/reviews/review-yundi-plays-chopin-sydney-symphony-orchestra/ |archive-date=22 February 2024 |date=4 November 2015}}</ref> Later, Yundi apologised for his mistake on his [[weibo]], and explained it happened because of travel fatigue.<ref>{{cite web |title=윤디, 한국공연 실수 "매우 죄송"…"여행 피로에 지쳐 실수" |url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20151102198800089 |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318054441/https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20151102198800089 |archive-date=18 March 2024 |language=Korean |date=2 November 2015|trans-title=Yundi, "I'm very sorry" for mistakes in Korean performance... “A mistake due to travel fatigue”}}</ref>
Critics stated the overall performance as “The famed Chinese pianist's slip up steals the show, but his Chopin is still stellar”, commented the mistake as “that’s the nature of live music, and perfection is boring” and considered the remedy “[…]But it gave me even greater admiration, on many levels, for everyone involved[…]In the temple to the arts, I was witnessing a moment of pure civility, decency and camaraderie, and was given a reminder that the gods are, in fact, human, and all the more heroic for that.”<ref name="review"/>
[[File:Yundi Li 2016.06.29 ShenZhen.jpg|thumb|right|Yundi in 2016]]
In 2016, Yundi went on a Chopin world tour, which includes Germany, Russia and the United States.<ref name="irish">{{cite web |title=The making of a genius, China-style |url=https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/music/the-making-of-a-genius-china-style/34591401.html |publisher=[[Irish Independent]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230612104159/https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/music/the-making-of-a-genius-china-style/34591401.html |archive-date=12 June 2023 |date=4 April 2016}}</ref> In March, he performed an all-Chopin program in [[Carnegie Hall]], with an encore [[Ren Guang|Ren Guang’s]] ''Colorful Clouds Chasing the Moon''. Corinna da Fonseca-Wollheim of [[the New York Times]] commented "[…]he showed off a graduated array of colors and moods, including moments of understated simplicity and tenderness light-years removed from his high-decibel image.[…]".<ref name="NY">{{cite web |author1=Corinna da Fonseca-Wollheim |title=Review: Yundi Plays Chopin at Carnegie Hall |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/25/arts/music/review-yundi-plays-chopin-at-carnegie-hall.html |work=[[New York Times]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160325180626/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/25/arts/music/review-yundi-plays-chopin-at-carnegie-hall.html |archive-date=25 March 2016 |date=24 March 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> On April 21 of the same year, he performed in the [[National Concert Hall]] of Dublin.<ref name="irish"/>
In May 2017, Yundi attended the opening ceremony of the Yundi Art Museum, located in the Chongqing Huangjueping Piano Museum. It displays several pianos from different stages of Yundi's career, including his first piano, as well as a collection of his awards, albums and photographs, and a high-tech experience pavilion.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://english.cqnews.net/html/2017-05/10/content_41569957.htm |title="Li Yundi Art Museum opened" |access-date=31 May 2017 |archive-date=18 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170818093924/http://english.cqnews.net/html/2017-05/10/content_41569957.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
From August 29 to September 5 in 2017, Yundi led the [[Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra]] on a five-city concert tour in China, performing [[Piano Concerto No. 1 (Chopin)|Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 1]] and [[Piano Concerto No. 2 (Chopin)|No. 2]] as both the pianist and the conductor. It was Yundi's first time picking up the baton.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking the baton |url=http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/201708/21/WS59bb716ba310d4d9ab7e7d75.html |website=China Daily |access-date=6 February 2022 |archive-date=6 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206032954/http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/201708/21/WS59bb716ba310d4d9ab7e7d75.html |url-status=live }}</ref> This tour was the first of a series of events commemorating the 100th anniversary of Poland's regained independence.<ref>{{cite web |title=Yundi and Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra In-concert |url=http://www.eyeshenzhen.com/content/2017-08/10/content_16971614.htm |website=EYESHENZHEN |access-date=6 February 2022 |archive-date=6 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206033735/http://www.eyeshenzhen.com/content/2017-08/10/content_16971614.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
In November 2017, Yundi went on tour playing [[Piano Concerto No. 23 (Mozart)|Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 23]] in A major, K 488 with [[Staatskapelle Dresden]] in Germany and China.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://onlinemerker.com/dresden-semperoper-alain-gilbert-und-yundi-im-3-symphoniekonzert-der-saechsischen-staatskapelle-dresden/|title=Dresden/ Semperoper: Alain Gilbert Und Yundi I 3. Symphoniekonzert Der Sächsischen Staatskapelle Dresden|website=Online Merker|access-date=22 October 2021|archive-date=22 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022132247/https://onlinemerker.com/dresden-semperoper-alain-gilbert-und-yundi-im-3-symphoniekonzert-der-saechsischen-staatskapelle-dresden/|url-status=live|language=german|trans-title=Dresden/Semperoper: Alan Gilbert and Yundi LI 3rd Symphony Concert of the Saxon Staatskapelle Dresden}}</ref> On November 3,  Yundi performed at a live concert at Beijing National Aquatics Center celebrating the [[2017 League of Legends World Championship]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.riftherald.com/culture/2017/10/17/16488546/league-of-legends-live-concert-beijing|title=Listen to your favorite League songs at League of Legends Live in Beijing|work=The Rift Herald|access-date=2017-11-03|archive-date=7 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107004319/https://www.riftherald.com/culture/2017/10/17/16488546/league-of-legends-live-concert-beijing|url-status=live}}</ref>
[[File:Yundi conducting in 2018 (cropped).jpg|left|thumb|300px|Yundi conducting in 2018 concert]]
In 2018, Yundi had a successful debut in Australia and New Zealand. In a series of sold-out concerts, Yundi performed with local orchestras Chopin's Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2 both as a soloist and a conductor.<ref>{{cite web |title=Yundi Li Sonata World Tour Sydney |url=https://discover.events.com/au/state-of-new-south-wales/sydney/e/music/yundi-sonata-world-tour-49-market-street-sydney-nsw-2000-368618308 |website=events.com |access-date=28 February 2022 |archive-date=28 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220228170120/https://discover.events.com/au/state-of-new-south-wales/sydney/e/music/yundi-sonata-world-tour-49-market-street-sydney-nsw-2000-368618308 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Yundi Li in Concert |url=https://www.classicmelbourne.com.au/yundi-li-in-concert/ |website=Classic Melbourne |date=29 October 2018 |access-date=28 February 2022 |archive-date=28 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220228175009/https://www.classicmelbourne.com.au/yundi-li-in-concert/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Signing with Warner Classics===
In December 2019, Yundi signed with [[Warner Classics]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.warnerclassics.com/artist/yundi/news|title=News &#124; YUNDI &#124; Warner Classics|website=www.warnerclassics.com|access-date=18 October 2021|archive-date=18 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018173106/https://www.warnerclassics.com/artist/yundi/news|url-status=live}}</ref> He soon released a new album on its label, Chopin’s Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2, in January 2020. In this recording, he not only played the piano, but also conducted the [[Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra]] from the piano bench.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.warnerclassics.com/release/yundi-chopin|title=Chopin: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 &#124; Warner Classics|website=www.warnerclassics.com|date=31 January 2020 |access-date=18 October 2021|archive-date=18 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018173106/https://www.warnerclassics.com/release/yundi-chopin|url-status=live}}</ref> This album was chosen by [[Donald Vroon]] of the [[American Record Guide]] as one of the "Best of 2020".<ref name="arg2022">{{cite book |title=Critics' Choice: Best of 2020 Over 375 CDs Reviewed |date=January–February 2021 |publisher=[[American Record Guide]] |page=10}}</ref>  The International Piano Magazine reviewed this recording, "This is aristocratic Chopin, unfailing in its clarity, elegance and unforced eloquence. Nothing is over-played, everything is expressed. Yundi Li ranks among the finest, his reading of the F minor Concerto’s central love song hauntingly inward looking. The Warsaw Philharmonic offer stout support, and sound and balance are exemplary."<ref>{{cite web |title=Chopin: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 |url=https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8718056--chopin-piano-concertos-nos-1-2?_gl=1*3i6t5k*_up*MQ..&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvqeUBhCBARIsAOdt45avNOfvOv_gqJuA07Lvexn-jHfp7AVbSBfTZHOEh_vZLAw11WQyM4EaApJ7EALw_wcB#reviews |website=prestomusic |access-date=27 May 2022 |archive-date=27 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220527040405/https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8718056--chopin-piano-concertos-nos-1-2?_gl=1*3i6t5k*_up*MQ..&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvqeUBhCBARIsAOdt45avNOfvOv_gqJuA07Lvexn-jHfp7AVbSBfTZHOEh_vZLAw11WQyM4EaApJ7EALw_wcB#reviews |url-status=live }}</ref>
=== 2023-present: YUNDI Plays Mozart The Sonata Project 1 Comeback Tour===
[[File:Yundi at Musikverein, 2024.jpg|thumb|Yundi performing at the Golden Hall, [[Musikverein]], April 2024]]
Yundi embarked on his comeback tour, 2023 Australia Coming Back Tour: YUNDI Plays Mozart The Sonata Project 1 in 2023, two years after he was blacklisted in China for alleged solicitation of prostitutes.<ref name="Australian">{{cite web |author1=Lim Ruey Yan |title=Chinese pianist Li Yundi holds Australian comeback tour two years after getting blacklisted |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/life/arts/chinese-pianist-li-yundi-holds-australian-comeback-tour-two-years-after-getting-blacklisted |publisher=[[The Straits Times]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031085005/https://www.straitstimes.com/life/arts/chinese-pianist-li-yundi-holds-australian-comeback-tour-two-years-after-getting-blacklisted |archive-date=31 October 2023 |date=31 October 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> At his performance in [[Adelaide]], Yundi performed [[Chopin|Chopin’s]] [[Nocturnes, Op. 9 (Chopin)|Nocturne In E Flat Major]] as an encore.<ref name="Australian"/> Yundi’s coming back tour was regarded as excellent and successful.
<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.pizzicato.lu/chinese-pianist-li-yundi-made-a-successful-comeback-in-australia/?doing_wp_cron=1703306079.6166520118713378906250|title= Chinese pianist Li Yundi made a successful comeback in Australia|date= November 8, 2023|website= Pizzicato & Remy Franck‘s Journal About Classical Music|access-date= 26 December 2023|archive-date= 26 December 2023|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20231226081431/https://www.pizzicato.lu/chinese-pianist-li-yundi-made-a-successful-comeback-in-australia/?doing_wp_cron=1703306079.6166520118713378906250|url-status= live}}</ref>
In the midst of 2024 March-to-May, Yundi has embarked on a European Tour of YUNDI Plays Mozart The Sonata Project 1, visiting cities historically connected with [[Mozart]], which includes [[Vienna]], [[Paris]], [[Munich]], [[Frankfurt]], [[Cologne]], and [[Berlin]].<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Gramophone |magazine=[[Gramophone (magazine)|Gramophone]] |page=Inside Front Cover |edition=April 2024 Issue}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=Concerti |magazine=Concerti|page=15 |edition=March 2024 Issue|language=de}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Yundi plays Mozart |url=https://yundi-konzert.de/ |website=Yundi Music |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323034726/https://yundi-konzert.de/ |archive-date=23 March 2024 |language=german}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=Rondo |magazine=Rondo Magazin|pages=2, 12–13 |edition=2024 Second Issue|language=de}}</ref> In align with the tour, he has released his latest album, ''[[Mozart: The Sonata Project - Salzburg]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Gramophone |magazine=[[Gramophone (magazine)|Gramophone]] |page=Outside Back Cover |edition=April 2024 Issue}}</ref><ref name="moz warner">{{cite web |title=Mozart: The Sonata Project - Salzburg |url=https://www.warnerclassics.com/release/mozart-sonata-project-salzburg |website=Warner Classics |access-date=11 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209170048/https://www.warnerclassics.com/release/mozart-sonata-project-salzburg |archive-date=9 February 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=Entwicklung mit Mozart |magazine=Concerti|page=25 |edition=April 2024 Issue|language=de|url=https://www.concerti.de/rezensionen/yundi-mozart-the-sonata-project-salzburg/|trans-title=Development with Mozart}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=Rondo |magazine=Rondo Magazin|pages=12–13 |edition=2024 Second Issue|language=de|url=https://www.rondomagazin.de/artikel.php?artikel_id=4075&teaser=true}}</ref>
==Repertoire, technique and performance style==
Regarded by many as a ''Master in Chopin'' and one of the finest interpreters of [[Chopin]],<ref name="journal">{{cite journal |last1=Fu |first1=Xi |last2=Cherevko |first2=Kateryna |last3=Pysmenna |first3=Oksana |title=Performing skills of Li Yundi in the context of China's leading trends in the piano art development |journal=Amazonia Investiga |date=2021 |volume=10 |issue=46 |pages=42–50 |doi=10.34069/AI/2021.46.10.4 |url=https://doi.org/10.34069/AI/2021.46.10.4|doi-access=free }}</ref><ref name=ja>{{cite web |title=ユンディ・リ（Yundi Li）&ワルシャワ・フィルハーモニー管弦楽団『ショパン：ピアノ協奏曲第1番&第2番』正統かつ非の打ち所がない表現力が見事 |url=https://mikiki.tokyo.jp/articles/-/24677?continueFlag=29313139355c1e1ceb8e2afcbc101f6f |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240207195240/https://mikiki.tokyo.jp/articles/-/24677?continueFlag=29313139355c1e1ceb8e2afcbc101f6f|archive-date= 7 Feb 2024|website=Mikiki |publisher=Intoxicate Magazine |language=Japanese |date=Feb 2020|trans-title=Yundi Li & Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra “Chopin: Piano Concerto No. 1 & No. 2” Authentic and impeccable expressiveness is superb}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author1=Jean Lacroix |title=Le Chopin jubilatoire de Yundi |url=https://www.crescendo-magazine.be/le-chopin-jubilatoire-de-yundi/?continueFlag=29313139355c1e1ceb8e2afcbc101f6f |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206172535/https://www.crescendo-magazine.be/le-chopin-jubilatoire-de-yundi/?continueFlag=29313139355c1e1ceb8e2afcbc101f6f|archive-date= 6 Feb 2024|publisher=Crescendo Magazine |language=French |date=23 Feb 2020|trans-title=Yundi’s jubilant Chopin}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author1=Thomas Michelsen |title=To pianister beviser, at tangenter ikke bare er sorte og hvide|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206171340/https://politiken.dk/kultur/musik/cd-klassisk/art5617093/To-pianister-beviser-at-tangenter-ikke-bare-er-sorte-og-hvide?continueFlag=29313139355c1e1ceb8e2afcbc101f6f |archive-date= 6 Feb 2024|url=https://politiken.dk/kultur/musik/cd-klassisk/art5617093/To-pianister-beviser-at-tangenter-ikke-bare-er-sorte-og-hvide?continueFlag=29313139355c1e1ceb8e2afcbc101f6f |publisher=[[Politiken]] |language=Danish |date=1 April 2016|trans-title=Pianists prove that piano keys are not just black and white}}</ref><ref name="arg2011">{{cite book |title=Overview : Chopin |date=July–August 2011 |publisher=[[American Record Guide]] |pages=52, 99}}</ref> Yundi is especially known for his interpretations of [[Chopin]], [[Liszt]] and [[Prokofiev]].<ref name="chopin and liszt"/><ref name="Liszt"/><ref name="Liszt 1">{{cite web |author1=Thomas Michelsen |title=Fodretid for klaverløver |url=https://politiken.dk/kultur/musik/koncertanmeldelser/art4853594/Fodretid-for-klaverl%C3%B8ver?continueFlag=29313139355c1e1ceb8e2afcbc101f6f |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206171338/https://politiken.dk/kultur/musik/koncertanmeldelser/art4853594/Fodretid-for-klaverl%C3%B8ver?continueFlag=29313139355c1e1ceb8e2afcbc101f6f|archive-date= 6 Feb 2024|publisher=[[Politiken]] |language=Danish |date=31 May 2006|trans-title=Feeding time for piano lions}}</ref><ref name= "prokofiev">{{cite web |author1=Anthony Tommasini |title=Review: National Youth Orchestra Impresses With ‘Symphonie Fantastique’ at Carnegie Hall |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/13/arts/music/review-national-youth-orchestra-impresses-with-symphonie-fantastique-at-carnegie-hall.html |publisher=[[New York Times]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715022542/http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/13/arts/music/review-national-youth-orchestra-impresses-with-symphonie-fantastique-at-carnegie-hall.html |archive-date=15 July 2015 |date=12 July 2015}}</ref> His other repertoires, such as [[Mozart]], [[Beethoven]], [[Ravel]] and [[Schumann]], have also received acclaim.
===Chopin===
{{listen
| type         = Music
|title = Yundi's Fantaisie Impromptu
|filename= Yundi_Fantaisie-Impromptu_Op_66_(2001).mp3
| description  = In Yundi's 2001 album ''Chopin'', his [[Fantaisie Impromptu]] is regarded as "The melody design of the middle section is embedded in a very sonically oriented accompaniment. The fast passages are lively without being intrusive. Yundi Li manages to strictly adhere to the composition’s guidelines and yet convey a vivacity that places his interpretation alongside that of other great pianists."<ref>{{cite web |author1=Axel Engels |title=Ein sensibler Künstler stellt sich vor |url=https://magazin.klassik.com/reviews/reviews.cfm?TASK=review&REID=899&RECID=1931 |website=Klassik magazine |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240325000000/https://magazin.klassik.com/reviews/reviews.cfm?TASK=review&REID=899&RECID=1931 |archive-date=25 March 2024 |language=de |trans-title=A sensitive artist introduces himself|date=14 July 2002}} [https://archive.org/details/httpsmagazin.klassik.comreviewsreviews.cfmtaskreviewreid899recid1931_202403 Alt URL]</ref>
}}
Yundi's versions of [[Chopin]] are referred "artistically serious, poetic, romantic, light-touch, harmonious, and uplifting",<ref>{{cite web |author1=Guido Fischer |title=Chopin Als Lebenselixier|publisher=KlassikAkzente |url=https://images.universal-music.de/img/assets/157/157616/195/KlassikAkzente-Printausgabe-04-2004.pdf|page=12 |language=de |date=2004|trans-title=Chopin as the elixir of life}}</ref> as well as "authentic and impeccable".<ref name=ja/> The [[The Daily Telegraph|Telegraph]] praised his performance as "beautifully polished and unfailingly elegant",<ref>{{cite web |author1=Ivan Hewett |title=What's the best way to hear Chopin? |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/music/what-to-listen-to/best-way-hear-chopin/ |work=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200228225146/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/music/what-to-listen-to/best-way-hear-chopin/ |archive-date=28 February 2020 |date=28 February 2020}}</ref> while [[BBC Music Magazine]] noted that his “technically precise  considered" approach to the music was heightened with "virtuosic flair".<ref>{{cite magazine |title=BBC Music Magazine |date=June 2020 |magazine=[[BBC Music Magazine]] |page=92}}</ref>
Yundi's technique in Chopin's pieces is described as "He has all that’s needed in poetry and sensitivity. His touch is perfect—never heavy, as Biret can be—and yet there is joy, zest, technical aplomb, healthy drama, and unerring tempos and rhythms."<ref name="arg">{{cite book |title=Overview: Chopin |date=July–August 2011 |publisher=[[American Record Guide]] |pages=55, 61}}</ref> and "Every passage is woven so smoothly and naturally that not even a grain of sound is felt, and this, combined with Chopin's pale romanticism, heightens the listener's sense of immersion."<ref name=ja/>
===Liszt===
Yundi's interpretations of [[Liszt]] are described "dazzling, daredevil renderings, sheer, heart-stopping beauty".<ref name="NY Times"/> His versions are believed to have "a smooth playing, with its flowing, impassioned rhythms, and full, rich tone, is a complete and dynamic interpretation of the score, without loss of style or form".<ref name="Liszt 1"/>
===Beethoven===
Jed Distler of [[Gramophone (magazine)|Gramophone]] reviewed Yundi's [[Piano Sonata No. 14 (Beethoven)|‘Moonlight’ Sonata]] "There’s more swing and edge to the Allegretto than I gave him credit for, while the unflappable security behind the finale’s sheen and sparkle does not preclude nervous energy. Yundi’s Moonlight may not be the deepest in the catalogue but it wears well over repeated hearings and will not steer collectors wrong."<ref name=Beethoven>{{cite web |author1=Jed Distler |title=Beethoven's 'Moonlight' Sonata: a deep dive into the best recordings |url=https://www.gramophone.co.uk/features/article/beethoven-s-moonlight-sonata-a-deep-dive-into-the-best-recordings |publisher=[[Gramophone (magazine)|Gramophone]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240102135506/https://www.gramophone.co.uk/features/article/beethoven-s-moonlight-sonata-a-deep-dive-into-the-best-recordings |archive-date=2 January 2024 |date=2 January 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>
===Mozart and Ravel===
Yundi's Mozart interpretations are described "very graceful, extremely delicate and charming, refined and aristocratic".<ref>{{cite web |author1=Martin Neumann |title=Yundi Li - Vienna Recital |url=https://www.rondomagazin.de/kritiken.php?kritiken%20id=4925 |publisher=Rondo Magazine|language=de |date=18 November 2005 }}</ref> His versions of Ravel are regarded "a tart, exuberant and (in the Adagio assai) dreamy account of the Ravel concerto."<ref name= NYT>{{cite web |title=Strings and Things: Classical's Best and Brightest |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/30/arts/music/30reco.html |work=[[The New York Times]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605085004/https://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/30/arts/music/30reco.html |archive-date=5 June 2015 |date=30 November 2007 |url-status=live}}</ref>
===Schumann and Prokofiev===
Yundi's interpretations of Schumann are "tempered by good taste and that rare ability to hit upon just the right tempos" and "brought a wider range of dynamics and dramatic characterization to the music".<ref name="sc">{{cite web |author1=Jed Distler |title=YUNDI LI–VIENNA RECITAL |url=https://www.classicstoday.com/review/review-12644/ |website=ClassicsToday |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211210151029/https://www.classicstoday.com/review/review-12644/ |archive-date=10 December 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>
Yundi "excels in Prokofiev’s volatile, technically daunting Piano Concerto No. 2." and "plays with expansive lyricism, surging power and, when called for, incisive attack."<ref name= NYT/>
==Achievements==
===Competitions===
Yundi has received top awards at various competitions. He won the Children's Piano Competition in Beijing in 1994.<ref name="Yomiuri" /> In 1995, he was awarded third place at the Stravinsky International Youth Competition.<ref name="competitions"/><ref name="award list">{{cite web |title=蕭邦國際鋼琴大賽金獎得主李雲迪來港獻技 |url=https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200011/30/1130249.htm |publisher=[[Government of Hong Kong]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010629181541/https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200011/30/1130249.htm |archive-date=29 June 2001 |language=zh-hk |date=30 November 2000|trans-title=International Chopin Piano Competition gold medalist Li Yundi comes to Hong Kong to perform}}</ref> In 1996, he won the third prize in the tenth Hong Kong - Asia Piano Open Competition.<ref name="award list"/> In 1998, he was awarded the third place at the 1998 [[Missouri Southern International Piano Competition]] (Junior Division).<ref name="award list"/> The next year, he took third prize at the [[International Franz Liszt Piano Competition]] of [[Utrecht]], as well as being a first-prize winner in the China International Piano Competition.<ref name="award list"/> In 1999, he won first place at the [[Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition|Gina Bachauer Young Artists International Piano Competition]].<ref name="award list"/><ref>{{cite news |title=Shenzhen pianist shows forte |newspaper=[[South China Morning Post]] |page=5 |location=Hong Kong |date=1 December 2000 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= 2021 International Junior & Young Artists Competition |url=https://bachauer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2021Competition-JuniorAndYourngArtists-Program-7.pdf |website=[[Gina Bachauer International Piano Foundation]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210626005711/https://bachauer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2021Competition-JuniorAndYourngArtists-Program-7.pdf |archive-date=26 June 2021 |pages=94 |date=13 June 2021}}</ref>
In October 2000, selected by the [[Ministry of Culture of the People's Republic of China]] to represent the country, Yundi participated in the [[XIV International Chopin Piano Competition]] in [[Warsaw]]. Yundi was the first competitor to be awarded the First Prize (the gold medal) in 15 years since [[Stanislav Bunin]] won it in 1985.<ref name="competitions"/> At 18 years of age, Yundi was the youngest and the first Chinese first prize winner in the competition's history.<ref name="ch c"/> Yundi was also given a Special Prize for the "Best Performance of a Polonaise" by the Chopin Society.<ref name="Yomiuri"/><ref>{{cite web |title=Winners of the 14th Chopin Competition |url=https://polishmusic.usc.edu/newsletter/2000/november-2000/ |website=USC Polish Music Center |access-date=24 March 2022 |archive-date=26 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226232928/https://polishmusic.usc.edu/newsletter/2000/november-2000/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Awards and Honours===
In 2003, Yundi’s release album ''"Liszt"'' received the German [[Echo Klassik]] Solo Recording of the Year ''Solistische Einspielung des Jahres'' and China Gold Record Awards,<ref>{{cite web |title=资料：第四届中国金唱片奖完全获奖名单 |url=http://ent.sina.com.cn/y/2007-07-19/18091644447.shtml |publisher=sina music |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210617030927/http://ent.sina.com.cn/y/2007-07-19/18091644447.shtml |archive-date=17 June 2021 |language=zh |date=19 July 2007 |url-status=live|trans-title=Information: Complete list of winners of the 4th China Gold Record Awards}}</ref> additionally named an “''Best CD of the Year''” by The New York Times.<ref name="Liszt">{{cite web |title=Echo Classic 2003 |url=http://www.omm.de/veranstaltungen/konzerte20032004/DO-031026.html |date=2003-10-26 |website=Polish Music Center |access-date=9 January 2024 |archive-date=9 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109034507/http://www.omm.de/veranstaltungen/konzerte20032004/DO-031026.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title= Echo Klassik Preisträger|url= https://echoklassik-archiv.de/nominierte-und-gewinner/|website= Echo Klassik|access-date= 9 January 2024|archive-date= 23 September 2023|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230923142150/https://echoklassik-archiv.de/nominierte-und-gewinner/|url-status= live}}</ref><ref name="NY Times"/> ''"Liszt"'' was also nominated [[Edison Award|Edison Award's]] Instrumental Soloist (''Instrumentale Solorecitals'') in 2004.<ref name ="Edison"/>
In 2005, Yundi won “Best New Classical Artist” of [[XM Satellite Radio]]'s First Annual XM Nation Music Awards.<ref>{{cite web |title=XM Satellite Radio's First Annual XM Nation Music Awards |url=http://home.nestor.minsk.by/jazz/news/2005/12/0501.html |website=Jazz News |access-date=27 May 2022 |archive-date=20 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420122915/http://home.nestor.minsk.by/jazz/news/2005/12/0501.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
In 2006, Yundi won the Nord/LB Artist Award.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chinesischer Starpianist Yundi Li ist Preisträger des NORD/LB Artist Award 2006|url=https://www.nmz.de/politik-betrieb/veranstaltungen/chinesischer-starpianist-yundi-li-ist-preistraeger-des-nordlb|date=2006-03-13|website=Jazz News|access-date=9 January 2024|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109044616/https://www.nmz.de/politik-betrieb/veranstaltungen/chinesischer-starpianist-yundi-li-ist-preistraeger-des-nordlb|url-status=live}}</ref>
In May 2010, in recognition of his contribution to music, the Polish Minister of Culture and National Heritage presented Yundi with a Silver [[Medal for Merit to Culture - Gloria Artis]].<ref name="gloria">{{cite web |title=Lista laureatów Medalu Zasłużony Kulturze Gloria Artis |url=https://www.gov.pl/web/kultura/lista-laureatow-medalu-zasluzony-kulturze---gloria-artis |publisher=Ministerstwo Kultury i Dziedzictwa Narodowego |access-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301102507/https://www.gov.pl/web/kultura/lista-laureatow-medalu-zasluzony-kulturze---gloria-artis |archive-date=1 March 2023 |language=Polish|trans-title=List of awardees of the Gloria Artis Medal for Merit to Culture}}</ref><ref name="silver">{{cite web|title=Yundi Li - Bio|date=2016|website=Chopin International Piano Competition 2015|language=pl|url=http://chopincompetition2015.com/juror/a32569dc-1f80-4cc5-b137-4ce548cbf8b0?tab=details|access-date=6 January 2017|archive-date=11 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230811025855/https://chopincompetition2015.com/juror/a32569dc-1f80-4cc5-b137-4ce548cbf8b0?tab=details|url-status=live}}</ref>
The same year, in recognition to his contribution to Chopin pieces, the Polish government presented Yundi with the world's first Chopin passport (''Chopinowskie paszporty'').<ref name="Chopin Passport">{{cite web |author1=artykuł nadesłany |title=Chopinowskie paszporty dla obywateli sztuki |url=https://prnews.pl/chopinowskie-paszporty-dla-obywateli-sztuki-43716 |website=prnews |access-date=6 February 2024 |language=Polish |date=9 April 2010 |archive-date=6 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206051352/https://prnews.pl/chopinowskie-paszporty-dla-obywateli-sztuki-43716 |url-status=live|trans-title=Chopin passports for citizens of art }}</ref><ref name="Passport news">{{Cite web |title=李雲迪蕭邦大賽最年輕評委 |url=https://orientaldaily.on.cc/cnt/entertainment/20141129/mobile/odn-20141129-1129_00282_063.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240208042210/https://orientaldaily.on.cc/cnt/entertainment/20141129/mobile/odn-20141129-1129_00282_063.html|archive-date=8 Feb 2024 |access-date=2024-02-08 |website=東方日報 |language=zh-hk|trans-title=Yundi Li, the youngest juror of International Chopin Piano Competition}}</ref><ref name="Proof">{{Cite web |last=sina_mobile |date=2021-01-05 |title=所以第一本"肖邦护照"获得者是郎朗还是李云迪？到底谁在说谎？ |url=https://k.sina.cn/article_2100757661_7d37049d00100xdu5.html |access-date=2024-02-08 |website=k.sina.cn |archive-date=8 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240208043828/https://k.sina.cn/article_2100757661_7d37049d00100xdu5.html |url-status=live|language=zh|trans-title=So who was the first recipient of "Chopin Passport", Lang Lang or Yundi Li? Who is lying?}}</ref>
In 2015, at the age of 33, Yundi served as the juror of [[XVII International Chopin Piano Competition]], making him the youngest-ever juror of [[International Chopin Piano Competition]] .<ref>{{cite web|title=Chinese Pianist Li Yundi to Join Jury Panel of International Chopin Piano Competition|url=https://en.yibada.com/articles/8335/20141203/chinese-pianist-li-yundi-to-join-jury-panel-of-international-chopin-piano-competition.htm|website=yibada|access-date=24 October 2023|archive-date=22 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222203600/http://en.yibada.com/articles/8335/20141203/chinese-pianist-li-yundi-to-join-jury-panel-of-international-chopin-piano-competition.htm|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Li Yundi joins Chopin jury|url=https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/culture/2014-12/03/content_19017886.htm#:~:text=Chinese%20pianist%20Li%20Yundi%20has%20been%20chosen%20as%20the%20jury,Martha%20Argerich%20and%20Garrick%20Ohlsson.|website=ChinaDaily|access-date=28 February 2022|archive-date=28 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220228181743/https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/culture/2014-12/03/content_19017886.htm#:~:text=Chinese%20pianist%20Li%20Yundi%20has%20been%20chosen%20as%20the%20jury,Martha%20Argerich%20and%20Garrick%20Ohlsson.|url-status=live}}</ref>
In October 2019, Yundi was awarded a Gold [[Medal for Merit to Culture - Gloria Artis]] by the Polish government, in recognition to his contribution to Polish culture.<ref name="gloria"/><ref name="gold">{{cite web|title=Li Yundi Awarded the Gloria Artis Medal|date=10 October 2019|website=Culture.pl|url=https://culture.pl/en/event/li-yundi-awarded-the-gloria-artis-medal|access-date=19 January 2022|archive-date=11 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230811030932/https://culture.pl/en/event/li-yundi-awarded-the-gloria-artis-medal|url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2022, Yundi was selected as the Honorary Board of [[Summa Cum Laude Festival]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Honorary Board|url=https://www.sclfestival.org/honorary-board|access-date=10 August 2023|archive-date=10 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810230447/https://www.sclfestival.org/honorary-board|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=SCL Honorary Board 2022|url=https://www.sclfestival.org/images/download_files/SCL2022_honorary_board.pdf|access-date=10 August 2023|archive-date=3 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203224358/https://www.sclfestival.org/images/download_files/SCL2022_honorary_board.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
==Impact==
{{Quote box
| width = 50%
| align = left
|bgcolor = #E0E6F8
| quote =I'm inspiring a new generation who are hungry to learn music. I think that's my responsibility and it's my dream.
| source = {{mdash}}Yundi during his interview with [[Irish Independent]], 2016<ref name="irish"/>
}}
Yundi is a notable example of China’s piano art development in the multifaceted development of the pianist's personality.<ref name="journal"/>
[[File:Yundi's Monument at Shenzhen Arts School.jpg|thumb|Yundi's Monument at Shenzhen Arts School, celebrating his first-prize in the [[International Chopin Piano Competition]]]]
Additionally, Yundi has promoted the development of [[classical music]] in China.<ref name=tm>{{cite web |title=China wonderkid: 'Role model' to 50 million young pianists |url=https://timesofmalta.com/article/China-wonderkid-Role-model-to-50-million-young-pianists.384378 |website=[[Times of Malta]] |publisher=[[Agence France-Presse]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240229073411/https://timesofmalta.com/article/China-wonderkid-Role-model-to-50-million-young-pianists.384378 |archive-date=29 Feb 2024 |date=12 September 2011}}</ref> Since 2008, Yundi is sponsored by [[Rolex]], only under the condition that they subsidise music teaching in rural China.<ref name="inde">{{cite web |author1=Michael Church |title=Yundi Li: 'I think I'm not a normal artist' |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/classical/features/yundi-li-i-think-i-m-not-a-normal-artist-1915552.html |work=[[The Independent]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325050532/https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/classical/features/yundi-li-i-think-i-m-not-a-normal-artist-1915552.html |archive-date=25 March 2024 |date=7 March 2010 |url-status=live}}</ref>
Yundi is the role model to millions of young musicians in his home country,<ref name=tm/> and has inspired many to learn piano.<ref name="irish"/><ref>{{cite web |author1=Clarissa Sebag Montefiore |title=Why piano-mania grips China's children |url=https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20131022-piano-mania-grips-china |publisher=[[BBC]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111215416/https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20131022-piano-mania-grips-china |archive-date=11 November 2020 |date=21 October 2014}}</ref> He has also given masterclasses at the [[Royal College of Music]], [[University of Cambridge]] and [[Qinghua University]].<ref name="bi"/>
Yundi has promoted [[Music of China|Chinese traditional music]] worldwide. He recorded traditional Chinese folk melodies but also world-premiere songs, aiming to promote Chinese keyboard music.<ref name=tm/>
== Discography ==
{{main|Yundi discography}}
Yundi’s discography contains 16 studio albums. He has also made five contributions to compilation albums with [[Deutsche Grammophon]] not under his name and featured in three video items, his 2005 and 2010 concert, as well as his documentary ''The Young Romantic: A Portrait of Yundi''.
Yundi signed an exclusive contract with [[Deutsche Grammophon]] in 2001 and released his first album ''Chopin'' in early 2002, which contains the works of [[Chopin]]. In 2003, the year of Yundi's [[Carnegie Hall]] debut, Deutsche Grammophon released his second album ''Liszt'', an all-Liszt CD. It was given the title "Best CD of the Year" by ''[[The New York Times]]'', which also referred to his 2008 release of ''Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 2 and Ravel's Piano Concerto in G major'' as one of the best classical CDs of the year.  Yundi continued to record for Deutsche Grammophon until October 2008, releasing a total of 6 studio albums with the label.
In 2010, Yundi began to record with [[EMI Classics]], with whom he signed an exclusive recording contract to record Chopin’s complete solo piano works. His first EMI release, ''Chopin: Nocturnes'', was released in March 2010. He subsequently released ''Live In Beijing'' and ''Red Piano'', releasing a total of 3 studio albums with the label.
In May 2012, Yundi officially signed with [[Universal Music Group]] and cooperated with Deutsche Grammophon once again.  He then released recordings of ''Beethoven'', ''The art of YUNDI'', ''Emperor Fantasy'', ''Chopin Preludes'' and ''Chopin Ballades Berceuse Mazurkas'', a total of five studio albums.
In December 2019, Yundi signed with [[Warner Classics]]. He soon released a new album on its label, ''Chopin’s Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2'', in January 2020. In this recording, he not only played the piano, but also conducted the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra from the piano bench. Yundi released his latest album ''[[Mozart: The Sonata Project - Salzburg]]'' on 5 April 2024, with Warner Classics.
Yundi has achieved considerable commercial and critical success. His albums have ranked on ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' charts, including the [[Billboard charts#Top Classical Albums|Top Classical Albums]].
==Personal life==
Yundi owns a cat named Musigny.<ref name="cat">{{cite web |title=李云迪与喵星人隔空互动 网友：你家猫胖成球了 |url=https://ient.ifeng.com/mip/42600675/news.shtml |publisher=Phoenix New Media |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323111001/https://ient.ifeng.com/mip/42600675/news.shtml |archive-date=23 March 2024 |date=5 April 2016 |url-status=live|language=zh|trans-title=Li Yundi interacts with his cat. Netizen: Your cat is as chubby as a ball.}}</ref> His hobbies are listening to [[Verdi]] accompanied by good red wine, and drinking tea while listening to jazz.<ref name="inde"/> His role-model is Chopin.<ref>{{cite web |author1=Julia Llewellyn Smith |title='Lang Lang? We've never met' |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/music/classicalmusic/10863146/Lang-Lang-Weve-never-met.html |publisher=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220325050059/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/music/classicalmusic/10863146/Lang-Lang-Weve-never-met.html |archive-date=25 March 2022 |date=6 June 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>
===Foodie===
{{Quote box
| width = 50%
| align = right
|bgcolor = Cornsilk
| quote = “In fact, food can also bring out the feeling of music. For example, in French composer [[Ravel|Ravel's]] classic piece ''[[Jeux d'eau (Ravel)|Jeux d'eau]]'', the last line is just like the disappearance of champagne bubbles.”
| source = {{mdash}}Yundi in a 2016 interview<ref name="foodie">{{cite web |author1=冯雪珺 |title=李云迪，在美食里找音乐 |url=http://paper.people.com.cn/hqrw/html/2016-04/26/content_1675116.htm |publisher=Global People 2016 Issue 11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323150448/http://paper.people.com.cn/hqrw/html/2016-04/26/content_1675116.htm |archive-date=23 March 2024 |language=zh |date=April 2016|trans-title=Li Yundi, looking for music in delicious food|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}
Yundi enjoys cuisine across the globe, as he believes that music styles of places can be found from food.<ref name="foodie"/> He particularly likes crabs.<ref>{{cite web |title=Li Yundi is a crab fan |url=http://www.china.org.cn/china/2013-09/27/content_30150090.htm |publisher=China Daily |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927031322/http://www.china.org.cn/china/2013-09/27/content_30150090.htm |archive-date=27 September 2013 |date=27 September 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref> He is also good at cooking, especially [[Sichuan cuisine]] [[twice-cooked pork]].<ref name="foodie"/>
=== Philanthropy ===
In 2001, Yundi donated a portion of the sales revenue of his first CD “Yundi Li: Chopin” to [[United Nations Children’s Fund|United Nations Children's Fund]], aiming to benefit children living in China’s economically disadvantaged areas.<ref name="Prize Winning Pianist Releases CD"/>
Soon after the [[2008 Sichuan Earthquake]], Yundi cancelled his European concerts<ref>{{cite web |author1=Lee Hyo-won |title=Young Maestros Yannick Nezet-Seguin, Li Yundi to Take Center Stage |url=https://m.koreatimes.co.kr/pages/article.amp.asp?newsIdx=26074 |publisher=[[The Korea Times]]|date=17 June 2008|archive-date=28 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328150920/https://m.koreatimes.co.kr/pages/article.amp.asp?newsIdx=26074|url-status=live}}</ref> to perform in a fundraising concert in Beijing, along with several other famous musicians of Sichuan origin. Funds raised at the concert were donated to helping rebuild schools in Wenchuan County and providing mental healing services for children affected by the earthquake.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sichuan musicians' fundraising concert |url=http://www.china.org.cn/china/wenchuan_earthquake/2008-06/03/content_15610038.htm |website=China.org.cn |access-date=11 April 2022 |archive-date=11 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220411175541/http://www.china.org.cn/china/wenchuan_earthquake/2008-06/03/content_15610038.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> On November 29, 2008, right before the [[International Day of Persons with Disabilities]], Yundi headlined a charity concert held in the [[Beijing National Stadium|Bird’s Nest Stadium]] to support people disabled by the earthquake.<ref>{{cite web |title=Charity concert to be Bird Nest's first post-Games show |url=http://www.china.org.cn/culture/2008-11/12/content_16753561.htm |website=China.org.cn |access-date=11 April 2022 |archive-date=11 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220411175543/http://www.china.org.cn/culture/2008-11/12/content_16753561.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
On January 11, 2011, before a charity piano recital in Beijing, Yundi told reporters that "Charity is just like music which comes from deep inside my heart. I can express my love for society and my country through my fingers, just like Chopin did." This recital was for the individuals and companies that had contributed to the efforts of the Red Cross Society of China in 2010. During the recital, Yundi was honored as the Music Ambassador of the Chinese Red Cross Foundation.<ref>{{cite web |title=Top pianist to perform for charity |url=http://www.china.org.cn/arts/2010-12/23/content_21601635.htm |website=China.org.cn |access-date=17 February 2022 |archive-date=17 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220117222013/http://www.china.org.cn/arts/2010-12/23/content_21601635.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
Joining forces with I DO Fund of China Charity Federation <ref>{{cite web |title=About Us |url=http://www.chinacharityfederation.org/nv_en.html?nid=47ff3c22-a609-4668-b916-4cd938a07845 |website=China Charity Federation |access-date=19 February 2022 |archive-date=19 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219175718/http://www.chinacharityfederation.org/nv_en.html?nid=47ff3c22-a609-4668-b916-4cd938a07845 |url-status=live }}</ref> in 2016, Yundi helped build the first music classroom and library for Puma Jiangtang Elementary School, the school with the highest altitude (5373 meters) in Tibet. The music classroom was named after Yundi. At the opening ceremony on September 1, also the first day of the new school year, Yundi taught the Tibetan children to play the piano hoping to help them open the door to music exploration.<ref>{{cite web |title=Li Yundi |url=https://www.chinawiki.net/thread/15/852.html |website=ChinaWiki |access-date=18 February 2022 |archive-date=18 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220218044546/https://www.chinawiki.net/thread/15/852.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=The first music classroom established at the elementary school with the highest altitude in the world |url=https://www.chinanews.com.cn/gn/2016/09-02/7992655.shtml |website=Chinanews.com.cn |access-date=19 February 2022 |archive-date=19 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220219174617/https://www.chinanews.com.cn/gn/2016/09-02/7992655.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref>
=== Arrest for alleged solicitation of prostitutes===
On 21 October 2021, after a tip-off by public informants referred to as the [[Chaoyang masses]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/30/vigilante-surveillance-the-rise-of-beijings-neighbourhood-patrols|title=Chaoyang masses: the rise of Beijing's neighbourhood patrols|first=Vincent|last=Ni|work=[[The Guardian]]|date=30 October 2021|access-date=1 November 2021|archive-date=1 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211101070848/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/30/vigilante-surveillance-the-rise-of-beijings-neighbourhood-patrols|url-status=live}}</ref> Yundi was detained by Beijing police for allegedly hiring a [[prostitute]]. Under Chinese law, Yundi could be detained for up to 15 days and fined up to 5000 yuan ($782) for illegally soliciting a sex worker. The [[Chinese Musicians' Association]] subsequently declared that it would revoke Yundi's membership.<ref>{{Cite web|date=22 October 2021|title=Li Yundi: China's 'Piano Prince' detained for hiring prostitute|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-59005937|url-status=live|access-date=22 October 2021|website=[[BBC News]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027184353/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-59005937 |archive-date=27 October 2021}}</ref> [[Jerome A. Cohen]], a [[New York University]] law professor specializing in the Chinese law, called the "lack of transparency" about his case "concerning", noting that prostitution is a "time-honored Communist Party claim against political opponents".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hernández|first=Javier C.|date=22 October 2021|title=Chinese Pianist Is Held on Prostitution Suspicion, State Media Says|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/21/arts/music/li-yundi-china-prostitution.html|url-status=live|access-date=22 October 2021|work=[[The New York Times]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031052320/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/21/arts/music/li-yundi-china-prostitution.html |archive-date=31 October 2021}}</ref> According to ''[[The Guardian]]'', there has thus far been no evidence that indicates the detention is politically motivated.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Graham-Harrison |first1=Emma |last2=Ni |first2=Vincent |title=China's 'piano prince' Li Yundi detained for allegedly hiring sex worker |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/22/china-piano-prince-li-yundi-detained-for-allegedly-hiring-sex-worker |access-date=24 October 2021 |work=[[The Guardian]] |date=22 October 2021 |archive-date=24 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211024022733/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/22/china-piano-prince-li-yundi-detained-for-allegedly-hiring-sex-worker |url-status=live }}</ref>
On 16 March 2022, the [[United States Department of Justice]] released a document<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 March 2022|title=Five Individuals Charged Variously with Stalking, Harassing and Spying on U.S. Residents on Behalf of the PRC Secret Police|url=https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/five-individuals-charged-variously-stalking-harassing-and-spying-us-residents-behalf-prc-0|url-status=live|access-date=23 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220330210759/https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/five-individuals-charged-variously-stalking-harassing-and-spying-us-residents-behalf-prc-0 |archive-date=30 March 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.justice.gov/opa/press-release/file/1484296/download |publisher=United States Department of Justice |title=Lin Complaint|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317184729/https://www.justice.gov/opa/press-release/file/1484296/download |archive-date=17 March 2022 |page=6}}</ref> that includes a detail suggesting "the derogatory information regarding the Pianist may have been manufactured". Multiple news sources<ref>{{Cite web |last=Italiano|first=Laura|date=17 March 2022|title=China plotted to use sex worker, porn, violence to end defector's run for Congress|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/china-used-sex-worker-porn-defector-run-congress-2022-3|url-status=live|access-date=23 March 2022|work=[[Business Insider]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220406065902/https://www.businessinsider.com/china-used-sex-worker-porn-defector-run-congress-2022-3 |archive-date=6 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rohrlich|first=Justin|date=16 March 2022|title=Honey Traps, Child Porn and Violence: Feds Bust Chinese Plot to Destroy NY Candidate|url=https://www.thedailybeast.com/fbi-alleges-chinese-community-party-and-retired-agent-qiming-lin-tried-to-ruin-ny-candidate-xiong-yan|url-status=live|access-date=23 March 2022|work=[[The Daily Beast]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220405214558/https://www.thedailybeast.com/fbi-alleges-chinese-community-party-and-retired-agent-qiming-lin-tried-to-ruin-ny-candidate-xiong-yan |archive-date=5 April 2022}}</ref> reported that "the Pianist" is an apparent reference to Yundi.
==References==
{{Reflist}}
==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{wikiquote}}
* [https://www.warnerclassics.com/artist/yundi Yundi at Warner Classics]
* [https://www.youtube.com/@YundiMusic/ Yundi at Youtube]
* [https://www.deutschegrammophon.com/en/artists/yundi Yundi at Deutsche Grammophon]
* [https://www.facebook.com/YundiMusic/ Yundi on Facebook]
* [https://www.instagram.com/yundimusicofficial/ Yundi on Instagram]
* [https://twitter.com/YundiMusic/ Yundi on Twitter]
* [https://weibo.com/liyundi/ Yundi on Weibo]
* [http://www.yundimusic.com/ Official website]
{{Winners of the Chopin Competition}}
{{Portal bar|Classical music|Biography|Music}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Li, Yundi}}
[[Category:1982 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:20th-century Chinese musicians]]
[[Category:20th-century classical pianists]]
[[Category:20th-century Chinese male musicians]]
[[Category:21st-century Chinese musicians]]
[[Category:21st-century classical pianists]]
[[Category:21st-century Chinese male musicians]]
[[Category:Child classical musicians]]
[[Category:Chinese classical pianists]]
[[Category:Chinese philanthropists]]
[[Category:Deutsche Grammophon artists]]
[[Category:EMI Classics and Virgin Classics artists]]
[[Category:Hochschule für Musik, Theater und Medien Hannover alumni]]
[[Category:International Chopin Piano Competition winners]]
[[Category:Male classical pianists]]
[[Category:Musicians from Chongqing]]
[[Category:People with acquired residency of Hong Kong]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Silver Medal for Merit to Culture – Gloria Artis]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Gold Medal for Merit to Culture – Gloria Artis]]