John Yao & His 17-Piece Instrument live in Queens County

Experience John Yao & His 17-Piece Instrument live on July 30th

John Yao & His 17-Piece Instrument will perform at Bowne Park in Queens County, New York on July 30, 2026. Yao’s musical project is characterized by large-scale, meticulously crafted compositions blending elements of contemporary classical, minimalist music, and ambient soundscapes. The ensemble utilizes a unique instrumentation – the “17-Piece Instrument” – consisting of modified and prepared piano, often employing mechanical and electronic interventions to create evolving textures and harmonic complexities. Yao’s work frequently explores themes of time, resonance, and the interplay between acoustic and artificial sounds.

Bowne Park, established in 1930, occupies approximately 11 acres in Flushing, Queens. It’s historically significant as the site of the Bowne House, built in 1661 by John Bowne, a Quaker who advocated for religious freedom. The house itself is a designated New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark, representing an early instance of religious tolerance in the American colonies. The park currently features walking paths, ballfields, a playground and hosts various community events throughout the year. Its landscape includes mature trees and open green spaces providing a natural setting for outdoor performances.