In 1998, Musica Sacra Chamber Orchestra was established to provide a creative outlet for local talent. The orchestra continued evolving into an expressive, contemporary music experience, prompting the name change in 2015 to Stratus Chamber Orchestra.

It was at this point that Stratus began truly changing the rules of engagement with audiences by performing music in unexpected ways and in unconventional places.

We believe orchestral music can be powerful, exciting, moving, and relevant and that everyone deserves to feel welcome experiencing it. Whether you're a lifelong classical music enthusiast or walking into an orchestra concert for the first time, you'll find an atmosphere that is warm, approachable, and open. We invite audiences to come as they are, explore something new, and share in the joy of live music together.

We are not interested in treating orchestral music as a museum piece. Instead, we use the orchestra as a living, evolving art form that can connect with today's world. Alongside beloved classics, we champion contemporary composers, unexpected collaborations, diverse musical influences, and creative concert formats that challenge assumptions about what an orchestra can do. We embrace innovation not for its own sake, but to create meaningful experiences that resonate with modern audiences.

Every Stratus performance is built on a foundation of artistic excellence and a desire to offer something distinctive. From immersive productions and community-centered events to bold collaborations and fresh interpretations of great music, we create experiences that can't be found anywhere else in Denver. Our goal is simple: to present extraordinary performances that spark curiosity, build connection, and leave audiences inspired long after the final note.