Draft:Ernie Mansfield

Ernie Mansfield, (aka Rick Mansfield, Ernest Mansfield), is a versatile American musician, composer, arranger, producer, and educator known for his proficiency across multiple instruments including flute, saxophone, and keyboards. (1)

Early in his musical journey, Mansfield attended the prestigious Interlochen Arts Academy from 1965 to 1967, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for music. He continued his education at Oberlin Conservatory and the University of Illinois School of Music in Champaign-Urbana from 1968 to 1971, during which time he collaborated and recorded with the renowned singer-songwriter Dan Fogelberg. (2)

In 1971, Mansfield embarked on a significant phase of his career by joining Mormos, an American “progressive” folk band that relocated to Paris, France. Mormos signed with CBS-France and released two albums, "Great Wall of China" and "The Magic Spell of Mother’s Wrath," along with two singles. Mansfield not only contributed as a musician but also as a composer, co-writing some of Mormos' material. (3) The band toured extensively throughout Europe, gaining recognition and performing alongside notable artists like Pete Seeger at venues such as L’Olympia. (4)

Returning to the United States in 1973, Mansfield joined SkyFarmer, a country rock band based in the Chicago area. One of their high points was a long-term engagement at Chicago’s Goodman Theater, performing the music for Sam Shepard’s “The Tooth of Crime”. (5) SkyFarmer recorded and toured throughout the Midwest, releasing an album titled "Amazing Grace" on Gear Fab Records. Mansfield's songwriting talents were showcased on tracks such as "Nobody’s Wife" and "Out of Hand." (6)

In subsequent years, Mansfield's career diversified as he settled in the San Francisco Bay Area in 1977. He established himself as a sought-after arranger, transcriber, copyist, and studio musician, collaborating with labels such as Fantasy Records and Catero Records. His musical contributions extended to working with artists like Mary Watkins. (7)

In addition to his studio work, Mansfield remained active in live performances, participating in events such as the Russian River Jazz Festival and appearing at venues like Yoshi's. (8) In 2003, he founded Mansfield Music, offering private lessons in flute, clarinet, saxophone, guitar, and piano, thereby nurturing the next generation of musicians. (9)

Mansfield's discography includes solo albums released on Catero Records, "Windsailor" (10) and "ColorDrops," (11) which were re-released and made available on Bandcamp in 2020. His latest album, "French Impressions & Latin Themes," further showcases his eclectic musical interests and talents as both a performer and producer. (12)