For the past two decades, John Yao has established himself as one of the premier trombonists, composers, and arrangers on the New York City jazz scene. Yao’s lyrical soloing and expressive, round tone, combined with his relentless drive to push the boundaries of harmony and rhythm, have established him as a unique and forward-thinking jazz talent. He has been called “one of New York’s elite trombonists and is also a first-class, ambitious, and witty composer and leader . .” (Lucid Culture) and his compositions are described as “boldly diverse, Yao's compositions cut across the swath of contemporary jazz's field” (All About Jazz). In 2023, Yao earned a place in the Rising Star Trombone and Rising Star Big Band categories in the Downbeat Critics Poll. He has built an extensive body of work, collaborating with ensembles and performers worldwide and releasing five recordings as a bandleader—each showcasing his bold, boundary-pushing compositions for both small groups and big bands. His newest big band recording "Points in Time" will be released in the Summer of 2025.