John O’Hara

John O’Hara: Composer

A graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music (Manchester, UK). John was resident Composer/Musical Director at the Bristol Old Vic for over a decade before joining the band Jethro Tull in 2002. He conducts and scores for orchestras, performing around the world with Ian Anderson.

John has composed for Welsh National Opera, ‘The Boy Who Went To The West Wind’ was staged in Washington, DC (2012). ‘The Merman King’ (2008) and ‘I Had An Angel’ (2013) have both been made into short films. ‘The Bargee’s Wife’ (Opera) and ‘I Can Hear You Waiting’ (Song Cycle) were commissioned for the Three Choirs Festival (2013). ‘A Short Operatic Adventure’ was semi staged at Colston Hall (2012). ‘Don’t Get Burnt’ (2015) was recorded for the BBC Radio drama ‘Sung’ by Jim Cartwright.

Other work includes: Co-adaptor and musical arranger of Quadrophenia, UK tour (2009). Rambert Dance Company, National Theatre UK, Royal Exchange, Halle Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Scottish National Orchestra. Myrtle Theatre Company (Bristol). Musical direction for Royal Welsh College Of Music and Drama final year musicals 2003–2009.

Television includes: Miracle on the River Kwai, History in Action, Nicks Quest (A Wild Life Series). Meare Marriage. Moments of Fear.

John enjoys teaching at Bristol and Bath Spa University.