Established in 1983 as a one-time event to mark the 50th anniversary of Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, the Banff International String Quartet Competition (BISQC) has evolved into the world's premier platform for emerging string quartet artistry. This prestigious triennial competition has launched the careers of some of the most acclaimed chamber ensembles over its nearly 40-year history.

Described by The Strad magazine as "what Bayreuth is to Wagnerians... Banff is to insiders of the string quartet world," BISQC invites the finest string quartets under the age of 35 to compete for over $500,000 CAD in prizes and career development opportunities amidst the stunning landscape of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

The upcoming 15th edition, scheduled for August 25-31, 2025, represents the 7th competition under Director Barry Shiffman's visionary leadership. Up to ten carefully selected string quartets will perform through multiple rounds, including an innovative Canadian Commission segment featuring "Rapprochement," a newly commissioned work by composer Kati Agócs. The Finals showcase each ensemble's artistic vision through self-curated repertoire, allowing their unique musical personalities to shine.

The 2025 competition will be evaluated by a panel of preeminent chamber musicians including Eckart Runge (Artemis Quartet), Marie Chilemme (Quatuor Cavatine/Quatuor Ebène), Jonathan Crow (New Orford String Quartet), Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt (Dover Quartet), Honggang Li (Shanghai Quartet), Eugene Drucker (Emerson String Quartet), and David Ying (Ying Quartet). These luminaries represent some of the most influential string quartets of our time.

BISQC has launched numerous celebrated ensembles into international careers, including the Dover, Miro, St. Lawrence, Colorado, Jupiter, Marmen, and Viano Quartets. The 2022 winner, the Isidore String Quartet, will return to perform at the 2025 Alumni Concert, continuing the tradition of artistic excellence that defines this remarkable competition.

Beyond the competitive elements, BISQC creates a vibrant festival atmosphere that unites over 400 dedicated attendees who purchase comprehensive packages, alongside numerous single-ticket holders. This passionate community engages in masterclasses, lectures, and special events while exploring the stunning natural environment of Banff National Park.

In 2017, BISQC expanded its impact by introducing the Banff International String Quartet Festival (BISQFest) during non-competition years, further cementing Banff Centre's commitment to chamber music excellence. Both events take place during the Banff Centre Summer Arts Festival, a seasonal celebration showcasing the institution's diverse artistic programming.

BISQC remains deeply committed to fostering career development for its laureates through comprehensive support including touring, residencies, coaching, collaborations, and recordings. The competition also extends its impact through youth mentoring programs, creating pathways for the next generation of chamber musicians.

A member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions, BISQC stands as one of the most respected events of its kind globally. Under the leadership of Banff Centre's President and CEO Chris Lorway and Executive Director of Arts Josephine Ridge, the institution continues to nurture creative potential across numerous disciplines.

For those unable to attend in person, the 2025 competition will be streamed live through media partner The Violin Channel and subsequently made available on BISQC's YouTube channel, ensuring global access to these extraordinary performances.

For audiences, BISQC 2025 promises not only breathtaking performances and engagement with fellow music enthusiasts but also the opportunity to experience this extraordinary artistic showcase against the backdrop of the magnificent Banff National Park—a perfect harmony of musical and natural beauty.