Drake Symphony Orchestra performs major symphonic repertoire as well as 20th and 21st century music. Guest artists from Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Minnesota Orchestra have performed as soloists with the orchestra. The orchestra also provides opportunity for performance by winners of the annual Drake Concerto Competition. Admittance into Drake Symphony Orchestra is by audition only.
Drake String Ensemble is a select group of the best string players at Drake University. The String Ensemble performs on campus as well as off-site. The ensemble has toured the Twin Cities (Minnesota) and Chicago, Illinois.