Pianist/arranger Clare Fischer was born in Durand, Michigan in 1928. Displaying an aptitude for music at a young age, Fischer was already writing music for dance bands by the time he was in high school. After completing studies at Michigan State University and serving in the military, Fischer moved to the west coast in 1958. His reputation as a gifted arranger grew rapidly, and soon he was writing charts for recording sessions of all genres. He also recorded multiple albums as a pianist during this time, displaying a uniquely modernist voice on the instrument.

Fischer's extensive work in the field of pop music led him to work with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Most notable were his many collaborations with Prince, for whom he authored several string arrangements. Other high profile names on his resume include Michael Jackson, Amy Grant, Paul McCartney, Paula Abdul and Natalie Cole.

A avid fan of Latin music since his college days (where several of his closest friends were of Latin American descent), Fischer experimented in several different mediums over the years. As an instrumentalist, his work with vibraphonist Cal Tjader and his own group 2+2 (which won a Grammy in 1981) are among his more well-known accomplishments. His work as an arranger for Brazilian artists Joao Gilberto and Helio Delmiro are also highly notable.