The historical precursor ensembles to the orchestra included the Harmonic Society (Harmoniska sällskapet), which was active from 1831 to 1837.
In 1859, the Philharmoniska sällskapet (Philharmonic Society) was founded under Karl Johan Lewerth.
The ensemble began to receive support from the Örebro municipality in 1912.
In parallel, the Örebro orkesterförening resumed operations as an amateur orchestra.
Nikolaj Znaider was principal guest conductor of the orchestra for three years, from 2009 to 2012.