Jim Hall (7)

British bagpipes player. Being born in Gateshead, Jim grew up with many of the songs and tunes which are such an important part of the Ranters repertoire. He played these and many other music-hall songs on the piano in pubs around Tyneside in his student days before becoming seriously involved in traditional music and in particular the Northumbrian small pipes. He quickly became an outstanding player and won many competitions, played at festivals and concerts both in this country and abroad, and made radio and television appearances, before first recording with the Cut and Dry Band in 1977 and 1981. When the New High Level Ranters formed in 1980, he became their lead piper, also playing piano, and calling for dancing when required. He has appeared on all three subsequent recordings, and as well playing with the band is still in demand as a piping judge, and as a tutor for workshops.