He has received numerous ASCAP awards and studied composition with Robert Washburn (composer), Arthur Frackenpohl, Charles Walton and Donald Hunsberger.
In addition, he is the recipient of a Master of Arts in Composition and Theory degree from Columbia University and an honorary Doctorate of Music Education from Crane.
He taught instrumental music and theory at all levels and for 35 years was Editor-In-Chief and Executive Vice President for Alfred Publishing Company.
He is co-author of Yamaha Band Student with Sandy Feldstein, Strictly Strings, and Accent on Achievement with Mark Williams.
Famous songs John O'Reilly has created in his book Accent on Achievement are "Eagle Summit March" And "Galactic Episode."