The La Jolla Civic Orchestra Association was incorporated in California on December 4, 1957. The Orchestra's mission was to advance public knowledge and appreciation of music. Thirteen years later, in 1967, the Orchestra added a permanent chorus and became the La Jolla Civic Orchestra and Chorus Association. The University helped to increase and improve both the Orchestra's repertoire and size, providing new rehearsal space as well as new student musicians. The Orchestra, composed of musicians from the local area, UCSD students and faculty, is funded primarily by membership donations.
Administration is carried out by a board of directors who serve on a volunteer basis.
In 1994, the Orchestra's name changed to the La Jolla Symphony and Chorus Association.