In late 19th century America, the idea of a symphonic orchestra was reserved only for large municipal centers with considerable financial resources and an abundant population. A city the size of New Haven was considered too small to support such an endeavor. But Morris Steinert, a recent immigrant and music merchant, felt differently about the city's potential and teamed up with Horatio William Parker (then head of Yale's newly founded Department of Music) to form a symphonic orchestra made up of local musicians. January 25, 1895 saw the first performance of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra and marked the beginning of symphonic music in New Haven.

Today, the NHSO is one of the oldest orchestras in the United States and presents performances by resident players with world-renowned guest soloists and conductors. Most NHSO concerts take place in historic Woolsey Hall on the Yale University Campus, but the symphony also performs at schools, public parks, and community centers in pursuit of its mission to reach a diverse audience and promote excellence in the performing arts.

In addition to these concerts the NHSO also maintains an active community presence with numerous educational and family programs, Young People's Concerts and performances in outdoor parks throughout Greater New Haven.