FISCHHOFF, JOSEPH

FISCHHOFF, JOSEPH (1804–1857), Austrian pianist and composer. In 1813, Fischhoff began to study at the lyceum in   Brünn, at the same time receiving instruction in music from the pianist Jahelka and the bandmaster Rieger. After completing his studies at the lyceum, he went to the University of Vienna to study philosophy and medicine. The sudden death of his father in 1827 changed Fischoff's career. He decided to devote himself from that time entirely to his art, and in 1833 became professor at the conservatory of music in Vienna. He was one of the most popular pianists in the Austrian capital, distinguishing himself particularly by his rendition of the compositions of Bach, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, and Chopin. He published a string quartet, many piano pieces, variations for the flute, and songs.