The Chicago Composers Forum (CCF) began in 1996 as the Chicago Chapter of the American Composers Forum. In 1999 the CCF was incorporated in Illinois and received its 501(c)(3) status in July, 2003. In December, 2003, citing lack of funds to support chapter operations, the national organization discontinued operations of the Chicago chapter as well as several other chapters. In January 2004, the Chicago Chapter reorganized as the Chicago Composers Forum (officially transferring its corporate and tax-exempt status to its new name) and began the year as an independent organization.

Serving the greater Chicago community, the CCF's mission continues to support the making, playing and enjoyment of new music by linking communities and audiences with composers, performers and advocates of new music.

The CCF's programs are focussed in three areas:

Concerts and Commissions of newly-created compositions.

Composer Residencies with not-for-profit community organizations whereby new or enhanced programs are developed.

Composer Services such as regular member meetings, workshops, round tables, master classes and salons; provision of commercial benefits to members such as discounted concert tickets and discounts on purchases at bookstores, record stores, and subscriptions to local periodicals and newsletters.

Chicago Composers Forum is currently in residence at the Zhou B Art Center in Bridgeport.

Marita Bolles, President
Lois Veenhoven Guderian, Vice-President
James Ascot, Treasurer
Christopher Preissing, Program Director
Marie Alatalo, Director
Russ Chibe, Director
Hans Guderian, Director