Xinqian Li

Music Expert - Mercor

(2026-02)

AI Music Fellow - Handshake AI

(2025-09 - 2026-01)

• Integrating advanced music theory and performance expertise with AI methodologies, currently improving model accuracy in sound classification by over 15% through refined feature extraction.
• Developing domain-specific prompts for Large Language Models (LLMs) and evaluating/revising responses to ensure alignment with music and audio research applications.
• Conducting AI-driven audio analysis (spectral, timbral, rhythmic) with 92% annotation precision and designing novel instrument models that enable 30% faster prototyping in digital lutherie and sound synthesis projects.

Music Annotation Specialist - Talent Union Music

(2025-06 - 2026-01)

• Creating high-quality labeled datasets from over 200 minutes of complex audio recordings, significantly enhancing model training efficiency and accuracy.
• Producing precise note-level and structural annotations (melody, harmony, rhythm, instrumentation) that are contributing to a 12% increase in music recognition accuracy during feature extraction tests.
• Collaborating with researchers and engineers to align musical expertise with technical requirements, bridging artistic knowledge with data-driven AI development.

Music Instructor - XinqianMusic Studio

(2022-08)

• Teaching individual and group lessons in guitar, bass, and piano, integrating music theory, ear training, and harmony to build strong musicianship.
• Designing personalized lesson plans and guiding students in composition and songwriting to foster creativity and artistic development.
• Preparing students for recitals, ensemble performances, and examinations, cultivating confidence, technical excellence, and expressive performance skills.

Guitarist - Theater Palisades

(2024-01 - 2025-09)

• Served as a pit orchestra guitarist for Broadway musicals (The Bridges of Madison County, Tick, Tick…Boom!, Newsies), expertly navigating diverse genres, sight-reading complex scores, adapting to live performance demands, and collaborating with the creative team to enhance each show's musical and dramatic impact.

Guitarist - USC School of Dramatic Arts

(2023-10 - 2023-12)

• Performed as the pit guitarist for the Broadway Musical Hit The Wall, providing versatile live accompaniment, collaborating with the cast and music director, and adapting to dynamic cues to support the production consistently.

Doctor of Musical Arts - Jazz, Music Industry, Film Scoring, Music Education - University of Southern California (2024)

Master of Science - Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, Generative AI - Steven Institute of Technology (2025)

Master of Music - Studio Guitar, Composition, Music Theory, Conducting - University of Southern California (2022 - 2024)

Bachelor of Arts - Sichuan Conservatory of Music (2018 - 2022)