McNeil graduated from the University of Portland in 1971 and attended graduate school at the University of Miami, where he studied with Jerry Coker, before moving to New York. McNeil led his own groups beginning in 1978 and toured North America, Europe, and Australia. His nine recordings for the SteepleChase label feature such players as Dave Liebman, Billy Hart, Tom Harrell, and Richie Beirach. Live, McNeil’s performances included such sought-after sidemen as Mulgrew Miller, Hal Galper, Rufus Reid, and saxophonist Bill Evans. In the mid-1990s, McNeil formed a unique group with saxophonist Kenny Berger and recorded the critically acclaimed albums Hip Deep and Brooklyn Ritual. His recordings can be found on the SteepleChase, Brownstone, Synergy, and Omnitone labels.

In addition to his work as a performer, McNeil was in demand as a writer, record producer, and arranger of music in all styles for ensembles large and small.

McNeil joined the NEC faculty in 1981 and had a reputation for encouraging his students to establish an emotional connection to their playing, and to develop a strong personal style.

John McNeil died on September 27, 2024, at age 76, from complications related to the genetic neuromuscular disease CMT. A tribute from the NEC community and a link to his obituary in DownBeat magazine can be found here.