Clare Fischer Dead: Revered Jazz Composer and Pianist Dies at 83

Clare Fisher, renowned jazz pianist, composer and arranger, has died at the age of 83, the BBC reports. Fisher had been on and off life support during the past month after going into cardiac arrest following complications from a minor surgery.

During his lengthy career, Fischer was nominated for 11 Grammy awards, the most recent in 2011 for his instrumental arrangement of 'In the Beginning.' The pianist also worked on many arrangements for the likes of Michael Jackson, Prince, Chaka-Khan, Paul McCartney, Celine Dion and Robert Palmer.

In 1975, Fisher began writing Latin-American music and formed his own group Salsa Picante. The band earned two Grammys for their albums '2+2' and 'Free Fall.'

His work in R&B and jazz eventually made him a "go-to guy" for pop arranging. He was hired out by the very best in business, eventually recording more than 50 albums and composing for over 100 artists.

Fischer is survived by his wife Donna and their children Brent, Lee and Tahlia.

Listen to Clare Fischer's 'Morning'