The Orchestra at Deerfield High School was established in 1963, four years after the school had opened, and it took off from there. For the first few years their numbers were small, but eventually they grew and some band students joined the orchestra so they could have a full symphony program. Since the beginning, Orchestra was involved in the community and performed for regular concerts, Christmas concerts, at graduation, the school musical, and assemblies, but after about 10 years they became involved in the Illinois Music Education Association Conference (IMEAC), which was - and still is - an opportunity to audition to be in a symphony orchestra. It consists of high-level student musicians, and the orchestra performs once after rehearsing for a day. Additionally, the Deerfield High School Orchestra began working in smaller ensembles and students were given the opportunity to take private lessons, where they would learn how to improve their tone and technique. The Orchestra was first directed by Mr. Spriester, but when the music program grew, they hired Mr. Washburn for the school year 1965-1966.