William Banfield is a composer with nine symphonies to his credit, as well as countless smaller scale works--concerti, chamber works, operas, choral and jazz works--that have been performed all over the nation. He has also performed with highly acclaimed jazz performers such as Patrice Rushen, Earl Klugh, Najee, Nelson Rangell and many others. He has degrees from the New England Conservatory of Music, Boston University and the University of Michigan. Banfield, 43, may well be one of the youngest endowed professors in the nation. This article describes his accomplishments and provides insight from those who have worked with him.