Founded by the composer Samuel Adler, its members participated in the cultural diplomacy initiatives of the United States in an effort to demonstrate the shared cultural heritage of the United States, its European allies and the vanquished countries of Europe during the post World War II era.

[2][3][4] During the course of a decade, the orchestra concertized extensively throughout the ruins of war-torn Europe as part of the cultural diplomacy initiatives of the United States in the aftermath of World War II.

[6][7] The orchestra's performances were well received by audiences and included tours within West Germany, Denmark, France, Greece, Italy and the United Kingdom from 1952 until 1962.

[10] In later years, it also sought to share America's musical heritage with European audiences by showcasing the talents of leading American composers including: Roy Harris, Leroy Anderson and Morton Gould.

[12][13] General Dwight Eisenhower even praised the orchestra as the "greatest thing for American-German relations" since the end of World War II.