The Bach Chamber Choir & Orchestra was formed in 1969 by a group of singers and instrumentalists who desired that there be a group to focus on early choral and instrumental chamber music, especially music from the Baroque and Classical periods. Then, as now, the group was a volunteer group. Changes in professional opportunities for instrumental musicians over the years allowed many of the BCC&O instrumentalists to move into the professional arena. As a result the "volunteer" orchestra could not be maintained as such. When instrumentalists are needed now, the BCC&O hires professionals. Since the choir was incorporated under the name "Bach Chamber Choir and Orchestra", the "and Orchestra" part of the name has been retained.