It was founded in 1969 by a small group of orchestra managers, and currently serves over 150 organizations and their 2,000 board and staff members.

ACSO's members are professional, academic, youth, and community-based orchestras, choruses, and festivals in California and the western region.

The members of its board of directors are leaders from the classical music community throughout the state of California and western region.

Mitch Menchaca succeeded Sinclair in 2016, and Sarah Weber is the current executive director.

These professional and organizational development opportunities address orchestra management, board/governance, and artistic issues.