Jim Rattigan is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music through his exceptional skills as a French horn player, composer, and arranger. Born in 1965 in Birmingham, England, Rattigan grew up in a family of musicians, which played a significant role in shaping his musical career. Rattigan's love for music began at an early age, and he started playing the piano when he was just five years old. However, it was not until he was 12 years old that he discovered his passion for the French horn. He was inspired by the sound of the instrument and the challenge it presented, and he began taking lessons with a local teacher. Rattigan's talent as a French horn player was evident from an early age, and he quickly progressed through the grades. He went on to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he was awarded the prestigious Queen's Commendation for Excellence in 1986. He also won the Royal Academy of Music's highest award, the DipRAM, in 1987. After completing his studies, Rattigan began his professional career as a freelance musician, performing with some of the most renowned orchestras in the world, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. He also worked as a session musician, recording for film and television soundtracks. In addition to his work as a French horn player, Rattigan is also an accomplished composer and arranger. He has written music for a variety of ensembles, including brass bands, wind bands, and orchestras. His compositions have been performed by some of the world's leading ensembles, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. One of Rattigan's most significant achievements as a composer was the creation of his own ensemble, the Jim Rattigan's Pavillon. The ensemble, which features Rattigan on French horn, alongside a string quartet and a rhythm section, has been praised for its unique sound and innovative approach to jazz and classical music. The ensemble has released several critically acclaimed albums, including "Shuzzed," which was named one of the top jazz albums of 2015 by The Guardian. Rattigan's work as a composer and arranger has also earned him numerous awards and accolades. In 2007, he was awarded the British Composer Award for his composition "Dark Inventions," which was written for the London Sinfonietta. He has also been nominated for several other awards, including the Ivor Novello Award and the BBC Jazz Award. In addition to his work as a performer and composer, Rattigan is also a respected educator. He has taught at several prestigious institutions, including the Royal Academy of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He has also conducted masterclasses and workshops around the world, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians. Throughout his career, Rattigan has collaborated with some of the most renowned musicians in the world, including jazz legends such as Kenny Wheeler and John Taylor. He has also worked with contemporary classical composers, including Mark-Anthony Turnage and Harrison Birtwistle. Rattigan's contributions to the world of music have been recognized by his peers and the wider music community.

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