John O’Gallagher

John O’Gallagher

From Pablo Held Investigates by Pablo Held

November 22, 2025 · 1h 46m

About this episode

Saxophonist John O’Gallagher discusses his music, research, and experiences with Pablo Held.

Saxophonist & composer John O’Gallagher joins Pablo Held to talk about sound and projection on the alto saxophone, his PhD research on late-period Coltrane, and how pitch-class set theory shapes his music. Other topics include stories behind the making of his new album ‘Ancestral’, playing together at Pablo’s ‘Alice Coltrane Tribute’ concert in Cologne, recording on Joe Henderson’s big band album, memories of Andrew Hill, and much more.

People in this episode

Host: Pablo Held

Guest: John O’Gallagher.

Topics covered

  • sound and projection on the alto saxophone
  • PhD research on late-period Coltrane
  • pitch-class set theory
  • making of the album 'Ancestral'
  • Alice Coltrane Tribute concert
  • recording on Joe Henderson’s big band album
  • memories of Andrew Hill

Keywords

  • saxophone
  • composition
  • music theory
  • Coltrane
  • album

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Ancestral

Books & works: PhD, Ancestral, Alice Coltrane Tribute

Places: Cologne

More episodes of Pablo Held Investigates

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Pablo Held Investigates podcast page.