The late Professor Emerita Beatrix Lien founded the group and led it during its first two years. Associate Professor Dr. Andrea Een served as conductor from 1977-1994. During this period the size of the string ensemble grew, and eventually winds and percussion were added to the ensemble. In 1996, when it became a full-sized symphony orchestra, the name was changed from The St. Olaf Chamber Orchestra to The St. Olaf Philharmonia. From 1994-2006 the 87-member Philharmonia was conducted by Dr. Jo Ann Polley. J. Robert Hanson conducted the 2006-2007 season followd by Steven Amundson conducting the 2007-2009 seasons. At present, The 90 member St. Olaf Philharmonia is conducted by Martin Hodel.
The Philharmonia performs music from all periods, including repertoire for string orchestra, chamber orchestra and symphony orchestra. Rehearsing twice weekly, membership consists of first-year through senior students. Virtually every academic major offered on campus is pursued by one or more students in this musical organization. The concert season consists of a fall concert, a chapel service, and a spring concert with a weekend tour.
