History

Joseph E. Fischoff and the South Bend Chamber Music Society founded the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition in 1973 as a way of encouraging young people to pursue chamber music study and performance. The Association is now a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit corporation and is managed under the supervision of a Board of Directors.

Now in its 34th year, the Competition has grown from 6 to 48 participating ensembles in both wind and string categories of three to six performers. An average of 22 different nationalities are represented each year by foreign nationals from South America, Asia,and Europe. Fischoff is the only national chamber music competition with both senior and junior divisions (age 18 and younger) and is the largest.

The primary focus of the competition has always been education. In this way, it is quite different from most competitions. Written comments and personal critiques from jurors help young emerging chamber musicians better their interpretation and performances. Master classes are also offered to junior division quarterfinalist ensembles. The care and hospitality given to competitors and their families by competition staff and volunteers places the Fischoff competition in its own league.