[1] The MSO was established for the Mid-Atlantic region in October, 1997,[2][3] after a two-year grassroots effort led by Eastern Shore residents.

[11][12] The MSO presented the state premieres of Peter Boyer’s Rhapsody in Red, White & Blue for Maryland and Delaware audiences in May, 2024.

[14] The MSO engages students and young musicians in the world of classical music through its outreach programs.

[16] The annual Elizabeth Loker International Concerto Competition, established in the 2019-2020 season, discovers and develops young musical talent worldwide.

In addition to playing with the orchestra, the three finalists are awarded cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, as well as for the audience-favorite.