In 1986 a group of some of the finest exponents of period instruments in the UK pooled their talents and expertise to found the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (OAE).  In 1992, the OAE scored a major coup when it persuaded Frans Brüggen and Sir Simon Rattle CBE to put their names to the Orchestra as Principal Guest Conductors. It is in its twelfth season as Associate of the Royal Festival Hall, and is also Associate Orchestra at Glyndebourne. It has toured many countries, including South America and the US in 2002, and South East Asia in autumn 2003. It is the only period instrument orchestra to offer an apprenticeship scheme - the Jerwood/OAE Experience for Young Players.  

The OAE established an education and outreach programme in 1994 with the aim of encouraging creativity and active participation in the arts. The 2004-5 seasons flagship education project DREAM! is inspired by the Mendelssohn series at the South Bank.

Substantially dependent on sponsorship for its core activities, the OAE has a particularly successful relationship with Jupiter Unit Trust Managers, who have sponsored the OAE’s work since 2001.