It hosts an annual subscription series of concerts in the Dunedin Town Hall, performing repertoire from the Classical, Romantic and contemporary periods.

The Dunedin-based 4YA Orchestra recorded variety programmes for the region's 4YA radio station, as well as performing in public and accompanying local choral societies.

[1] The orchestra changed its name in 1983 to The Dunedin Sinfonia after a funding review and recommendations from the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council, and a reduction in the number of players.

In 2002 the orchestra changed its name to "Southern Sinfonia" to reflect its more regional scope, performing in Invercargill, Oamaru and Wānaka; however this touring funding was short-lived.

[12] After the financial uncertainty and disruption to rehearsals and performances brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, in November 2021 the orchestra received a multi-year grant from the Otago Community Trust, and launched a donations appeal.