Our Story

Reimagining what have been the limited definitions of “classical music,” the New Orchestra of Washington (NOW) welcomes audiences into a transformative musical experience that lessens the distance between our identities and compels listeners to feel something in the sound.

We create what we call “great music without labels.” It represents the robust cultural and ethnic diversity in metropolitan Washington, DC, where we’re intentional about making orchestral music beautiful and accessible to people from all backgrounds. Our hallmark is small, intimate performances that put audiences at the heart center of musicians who pour the best of themselves and their cultures into immersive concerts that leave attendees inspired. 

NOW is guided by six values—collaboration, representation, education, access, technology and experimentation (CREATE)—to foster innovative, inclusive programming; nurture enriching partnerships; and infuse the global flavors of all music. We lead with love for the experiential music we create and, most important, the people we want to absorb it.