John Rae is a Scottish born New Zealand–based drummer, composer, and bandleader whose work spans jazz, improvised music, and large-ensemble writing. Known for his dynamic, orchestral approach to the drum kit, John has performed extensively throughout Aotearoa and internationally, collaborating with leading musicians across jazz, contemporary, and cross-genre projects. He is the founder and musical director of the Aotearoa Jazz Orchestra, New Zealand's national jazz orchestra, where he champions ambitious repertoire, original New Zealand compositions, and bold reinterpretations of classic works. John’s practice balances deep respect for jazz tradition with a forward-looking commitment to creative risk, collective storytelling, and the development of  jazz in Aotearoa.