The orchestra was founded in 1918 with Nikolai Sokoloff its principal conductor. From early in its existence, it toured across the United States made radio broadcasts and recorded. Subsequent principal conductors have been Artur Rodzinski (1933-43), Erich Leinsdorf (1943-44), Georg Szell (1946-70), Lorin Maazel (1972-82) and Christoph von Dohnányi (1984-2002). The post is currently held by Franz Welser-Möst.
As well as these figures, the orchestra has made recordings under the baton of Vladimir Ashkenazy, Oliver Knussen and Pierre Boulez, who was also the group's Musical Advisor from 1970 until 1972.
During the summer months the orchestra plays at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio while during the winter months they play at Severance Hall in Cleveland, Ohio.