Of the several orchestras at the University of Michigan, it is the only one that is entirely student-run and student-directed.

The orchestra attempts to bring as wide a range of audience members as possible so that regardless of classical background, everyone can enjoy the show.

The orchestra has an open auditions policy and features students from the College of Literature, Science and the Arts, College of Engineering, and the schools of Nursing, Music, and Business.

The Michigan Pops Orchestra has grown significantly.

Beginning with just a few board members and a small group of musicians looking to play without the stress, the Michigan Pops Orchestra has blossomed into a full orchestra with a fourteen-member board.