Yuki Mori
trombone
Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI
Alma maters: Yale University, M.M., 2024; University of Michigan, B.M., 2022
Photo credit
Awards/Competitions
Finalist, 2022 International Trombone Association Trombone Quartet Competition; Winner, 2022 University of Michigan SMTD Concerto Competition; Winner, 2021 Jacqueline Avent Concerto Competition at Sewanee Summer Music Festival
Appearances
Hartford Symphony Orchestra, CT, 2025; Nutmeg Symphony Orchestra, Torrington, CT, 2024–25; Norfolk Chamber Music Festival, CT, 2023; Chautauqua Institution Music Festival, NY, 2022; Adrian Symphony Orchestra, MI, 2021–22; Sewanee Summer Music Festival, TN, 2021; Domaine Forget Music Festival, Saint-Irénée, Charlevoix, QC, 2020
Was there a teacher who was particularly impactful/helpful? What made this instructor stand out?
My high school band teacher, Stephen Roberts, had a huge impact on becoming the musician I am today. His guidance and leadership helped me develop the foundation of what is necessary to become a great musician, and his teachings are something I still carry to this day.
What made you decide to become a musician? Was there a particular performance or person that influenced your decision?
My decision to become a musician is quite whimsical. I wasn’t interested in a lot of the college majors but I was pretty good at the trombone, so I figured I should give it a try! In my senior year of high school, I won both my high school’s as well as MSBOA (Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association)’s concerto competitions, which solidified my decision to pursue this dream.
How did you hear about TŌN? What inspired you to apply?
I’ve always heard of TŌN during my studies in undergrad from former members or teachers. I was inspired to apply because I wanted to expand my opportunities and meet others who share the same goals and passion.
What is the most memorable performance you ever had?
A brass band I am a member of played at a town fair and we were doing quite well with the crowd. Towards the end of our set, we decided to parade around a tented area playing “When the Saints Go Marchin’ In.” The crowd response was fantastic, which drove us to really go all out. Despite being tired from an hour of performing earlier, the energy in that room motivated me to give it all to the crowd and made the experience especially memorable.
What is your proudest achievement as a musician?
Winning the UMich SMTD Concerto Competition. Two weeks before the semis and finals, which happened to be winter recess, I found out that I had COVID-19 and I wasn’t able to play my trombone until a few days before the competition. It felt miraculous to have won despite everything but the relief and a sense of accomplishment is something that I felt was profound.
Do you have a favorite non-classical musician or band?
Jamiroquai and Cory Wong
What advice would you give your younger self or anyone starting out?
Play or listen to all kinds of music–classical, jazz, pop, rock, country, hip-hop, salsa, etc. Being able to appreciate all kinds of genres and styles makes one a well-rounded musician and have a great perspective on worldview.
What do you wish you knew starting out that you know now?
Learn and master the alternate positions!!! It seriously does make a difference on your playing.