It was founded in 1984 by harpsichordist, teacher, and early music pioneer Ton Koopman, and Monica Huggett served as Artistic Director from 1995 until 2021.
In addition, Portland Baroque Orchestra has engaged eminent guest conductors to its podium including Paul Agnew, John Butt, Richard Egarr, Paul O'Dette, Andrew Manze, Alexander Weimann, and Stanley Ritchie.
PBO performs a six-program subscription season in the greater Portland area—and is regularly heard on tour in the region, especially with the Oregon Bach Festival.
In 2006, PBO began a successful annual collaboration with the vocal ensemble Cappella Romana.
Joint productions have included Handel's Messiah every year, Bach's St. John Passion (including CD release), and two thematic programs of choral works by Bach, Handel and Vivaldi, and a project at the Portland Art Museum for an exhibition of Venetian musical instruments.