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Our Story

The National Chamber Orchestra (NCO) is a brand new ensemble composed of Baltimore-Washington’s finest professional musicians, including members hailing from renowned orchestras such as the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra, alongside a roster of accomplished international soloists.

  • Spring Fundraiser Concert

    3.14 7:00-9:00PM

    An intimate evening of chamber music featuring NCO cellist Matthias Holdhoff and pianist Christie Julien.

  • Concert - St. Paul's Lutheran, NW DC

    5.22 7:00-9:00PM

    Our 2026 inaugural concert program, featuring an all Beethoven program, including Piano Concerto No. 4 “Emperor”, the Coriolan Overture, and Symphony No. 7.

  • Concert - TBD, Baltimore

    5.23 7:00-9:00PM

    Our 2026 inaugural concert program, featuring an all Beethoven program, including Piano Concerto No. 4 “Emperor”, the Coriolan Overture, and Symphony No. 7.

Yao GuangZhai, NCO Co-Founder, Principal Clarinet of the Baltimore Symphony, and Professor at Boston Conservatory "I am thrilled about the highly-anticipated launch of the National Chamber Orchestra, which will bring together some of the most exceptional musicians in the country. This orchestra promises to deliver world-class performances that will not only showcase the depth and beauty of our cultural heritage, but also put our country on the global map as a hub of artistic excellence. This exciting new venture is a true testament to the power of the arts to unite people and enrich lives, and I have no doubt that the orchestra will be a cultural highlight not only in our local community, but also on the national and international stage. Its awe-inspiring performances are sure to leave audiences captivated and inspired."

Yao GuangZhai, NCO Co-Founder, Principal Clarinet of the Baltimore Symphony, and Professor at Boston Conservatory "I am thrilled about the highly-anticipated launch of the National Chamber Orchestra, which will bring together some of the most exceptional musicians in the country. This orchestra promises to deliver world-class performances that will not only showcase the depth and beauty of our cultural heritage, but also put our country on the global map as a hub of artistic excellence. This exciting new venture is a true testament to the power of the arts to unite people and enrich lives, and I have no doubt that the orchestra will be a cultural highlight not only in our local community, but also on the national and international stage. Its awe-inspiring performances are sure to leave audiences captivated and inspired."

Qing Li, NCO Concertmaster, Principal Second Violin of Baltimore Symphony, and Professor at Peabody Conservatory "I'm excited for the National Chamber Orchestra's launch. It a group of top musicians performing beautiful and impact classical pieces, what could be better. The orchestra will enchant audiences and showcase the mere power of classical music."

Qing Li, NCO Concertmaster, Principal Second Violin of Baltimore Symphony, and Professor at Peabody Conservatory "I'm excited for the National Chamber Orchestra's launch. It a group of top musicians performing beautiful and impact classical pieces, what could be better. The orchestra will enchant audiences and showcase the mere power of classical music."

Matthew Payne, NCO Board President, Co-Founder of SentiSound "All people deserve to be exposed to not just classical music but classical music performed by exceptional musicians. The National Chamber Orchestra is doing just that— bringing these timeless pieces to not just cities, but the rest of the DMV."

Matthew Payne, NCO Board President, Co-Founder of SentiSound "All people deserve to be exposed to not just classical music but classical music performed by exceptional musicians. The National Chamber Orchestra is doing just that— bringing these timeless pieces to not just cities, but the rest of the DMV."