Having grown up across three continents, Yali is now based in northwest lower Michigan, where his work continues to blend movement and sound.

A saxophonist since the age of 10, and dancer since the age of 19, Yali  pairs deep musical roots with an equal presence in movement practice. He holds a degree in Dance Performance and Composition from the Salzburg Experimental Academy of Dance (SEAD), shaping a multidisciplinary practice that crosses genres and boundaries.

In his time in Europe, he continued to work professionally post graduating SEAD. Receiving public grants for his personal work, the work of his collective (Yugsamas Movement Collective), the danceWEB scholarship program of ImPulseTanz festival in Vienna and more.

Yali is a member of The Handstanders and The Sandbox Ensemble, and frequently collaborates with Saltbreaker and many other Michigan musicians—bringing improvisation, curiosity, and connection to every project.