“. . a tuneful, epically-inclined, cinematic trombonist.”

New York Music Daily

Welcome to JOHNYAO.COM. Fueled by his passion, talent and relentlessly hard work, John Yao has spent almost 20 years cementing his place on the New York City jazz scene as a trombonist, composer, arranger, and educator. This site provides information about his upcoming performances, his compositions, his album releases, his teaching online and in person, and updates on current and future projects.

Enjoy the site. Enjoy the music. Stay tuned for more...

Upcoming Shows

 

FEBRUARY 9 - John Yao & His 17-piece Instrument at Culture Lab LIC

FEBRUARY 12-14 - John Yao & His 17-piece Instrument Recording Session at Oktaven Studios

Watch

Below are some of the latest uploads to my YouTube Channel. You’ll find videos from all my various bands over the years. Take a listen and if you like what you hear, please subscribe to my channel. Thanks.

Listen

NEW ALBUM: Off-Kilter: released on June 2022 on See Tao Recordings

“This three-horned beast of a band first came to notice with 2019’s How We Do, a dynamic, boundry-pushing date . . . John Yao’s Triceratops may be off-kilter, but is also remarkably on point.”- Jazz Journalist Dan Bilawsky, JazzTimes, All About Jazz, JAZZed

“Trombonist and composer, John Yao, vividly captures a sense of risk-taking and improvisational invention to create this boldly unpredictable album.” – Musical Memoirs, Dee Dee McNeil

“It's refreshing at will until the coda, jubilant and irresistible.” - Vincent Cotro, Jazz Magazine in France

John Yao, Trombone & Compositions / Billy Drewes, Soprano & Alto Saxes / Jon Irabagon, Tenor Sax / Robert Sabin, Bass / Mark Ferber, Drums


LEarn

PUBLISHED CHARTS

Much of the music John Yao has composed is readily available, including commissioned works.  This included original compositions and arrangements. Additional arrangements are also available for younger, developing ensembles intended to challenge and inspire them to new heights.  

CLINICS, MASTERCLASS, COMMISSIONS

John has two decades of experience as a professional performer, composer, arranger to pass on to a high-school or university- level music program.  Whether your big band needs help getting to the next skill level, a masterclass on improvisation or a chart composed for your big band, John is available to discuss and meet your program needs.  

LESSONS

Yao is available for private trombone lessons as well as composing and arranging lessons.  Whether you are located in the NYC Tristate area or you live on a different continent, Yao provides private instruction in-person or via Skype. Lessons will be tailored to inspire your growth as a performer or a composer.