The Toho Symphony Orchestra began full-time activities in 1947, starting on 29 September 1947 with performances of Beethoven conducted by Hidemaro Konoe.

In May 1956, the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra Foundation undertook management of the ensemble.

Past music directors of the orchestra have included Masashi Ueda (1945–1964) and Kazuyoshi Akiyama (1964–2004).

Nott is scheduled to conclude his tenure as the orchestra's music director in March 2026.

In August 2024, the orchestra announced the appointment of Viotti as its next music director, effective with the 2026-2027 season, with an initial contract of three years.