Tim Li
Tim Li is a London-based, Hong Kong-born jazz pianist and composer. A Trinity Laban graduate, Li blends his classical foundation and gospel roots with a deep affinity for hard bop and blues. Influenced by masters like McCoy Tyner and Benny Green, his playing is defined by strong melodicism and a powerful groove. A rising voice in the international scene, he has performed at prestigious venues including Pizza Express Soho and the EFG London Jazz Festival.
Tim Li is a Hong Kong-born jazz pianist and composer currently based in London. A graduate of the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, Li has increasingly gained recognition across both the UK and Hong Kong jazz scenes as a compelling new voice on the piano. His musical journey began at age five with classical piano training. Growing up in the church, he was deeply immersed in gospel music, which provided him with a robust rhythmic and harmonic foundation. His trajectory shifted toward jazz after being introduced to the genre by his drum teacher. In 2017, Li moved to the United Kingdom, initially studying jazz under Mike Williams at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s junior department before pursuing further studies at Trinity Laban. There, he was mentored by prominent figures in contemporary British jazz, including Mercury Prize winner Deschanel Gordon and Byron Wallen. Li’s performance style is heavily influenced by hard bop, gospel, and blues, characterized by strong melodicism and a powerful sense of groove. He cites masters such as Benny Green, McCoy Tyner, Gene Harris, and Kenny Kirkland as primary influences. He has performed at prestigious London venues including Pizza Express Jazz Club Soho, the Southbank Centre, and the Roundhouse, and has appeared on international stages such as the EFG London Jazz Festival, Ealing Jazz Festival, and Festiwal Jazz Jantar in Poland. Li continues to forge his own path, crafting a unique sound that bridges his roots in Hong Kong with his career in the UK.