John Gannon is representative of a particular kind of Boston Irish musician—deeply knowledgeable, highly consistent, and embedded in the session culture rather than the touring circuit. He has been a regular presence in sessions across the city for decades, particularly in neighborhoods like Dorchester, and is highly respected for his musicality and commitment to older styles. John Gannon’s melodeon playing is valued for its steadiness, clarity, and authenticity, having been formed in Connemara in the 1950s before being left unchanged for 20 years. John is an exemplar of the impact that the many immigrants from Connemara had on Irish traditional music in Boston. For many years he hosted a Sunday afternoon session in the Burren that was regarded as one of the best in the country. Likewise, John’s repertoire and creativity have encouraged area musicians to dub tunes played in rare but more favorable keys, “the key of Gannon.” John’s impact is felt today through his own music and his sons, Colm, and the late Sean Gannon.