Written by: Liam O'Sullivan

John Altman: The Maestro of Music Arrangement and Composition

John Altman, born on December 5, 1949, is a renowned English film composer, music arranger, orchestrator, and conductor, celebrated for his remarkable work in arranging and conducting iconic hit records for some of the most influential artists in the music industry.

The Early Years and Influences

Altman's love affair with music began at a tender age, thanks to his uncles, Woolf and Sid Phillips, bandleaders who introduced him to the rich sounds of the 1930s and 1940s. Woolf Phillips, a prominent figure in the Golden Age of Variety, arranged and conducted for legendary artists such as Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, and Duke Ellington, while Sid Phillips wrote for the Bert Ambrose Orchestra and led Britain's most renowned Dixieland Band.

Altman's cousin, Simon Phillips, was the drummer for the rock band Toto, further solidifying his family's musical legacy. Despite having no formal musical training, apart from childhood piano lessons, Altman's passion and talent led him to pursue a career in music.

Rise to Prominence

During his time at the University of Sussex, Altman was involved in session work and gigs with notable artists like Peter Green, members of Fleetwood Mac, Kevin Ayers, and John Martyn. He later studied at Birkbeck College, but his academic pursuits were interrupted when he left to work as the musical director for Hot Chocolate's concert tour.

Altman's versatility as a saxophonist led him to collaborate with an impressive array of artists, including Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Eric Clapton, Phil Collins, and Van Morrison, for whom he also functioned as arranger and musical director.

Composition and Arrangement Legacy

Some of Altman's most memorable works include Aled Jones' "Walking in the Air," which he also produced; Alison Moyet's "That Old Devil Called Love"; Simple Minds' "Street Fighting Years"; Rod Stewart's "Downtown Train"; George Michael's "Kissing a Fool"; Prefab Sprout's "Hey Manhattan"; Tina Turner and Barry White's "Wildest Dream"; Diana Ross' Christmas Album; and Björk's "It's Oh So Quiet."

His remarkable arrangements and conducting skills have earned him numerous accolades, solidifying his position as a maestro of music arrangement and composition.

Career Highlights and Major Works

• Aled Jones' "Walking in the Air" (1985)
• Alison Moyet's "That Old Devil Called Love" (1984)
• Simple Minds' "Street Fighting Years" (1989)
• Rod Stewart's "Downtown Train" (1989)
• George Michael's "Kissing a Fool" (1988)
• Prefab Sprout's "Hey Manhattan" (1990)
• Tina Turner and Barry White's "Wildest Dream" (1996)
• Diana Ross' Christmas Album (1994)
• Björk's "It's Oh So Quiet" (1995)

Influence on Modern Society

Altman's contributions to the music industry have been profound, inspiring generations of musicians and arrangers. His work has transcended genres, from rock and pop to jazz and classical, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

Through his remarkable career, Altman has demonstrated his adaptability, creativity, and mastery of his craft, cementing his status as a legendary composer, arranger, and conductor.