Musically, the Chelsea House Orchestra (CHO) provides a varied and colorful performance repertoire with the majority of the music derived from traditional Celtic sources. However, other folk music sources are used to provide students with an eclectic musical experience.

The basic philosophy of the arrangements is to allow everyone in the group to enjoy Celtic music as much as possible. Consequently, the majority of the playing is melody based with very little inner harmony or separate part writing. This truly provides students with a contrasting experience from their normal school orchestra. Individuals are showcased using solos, duos, and special features.

Many of the musicians play other instruments such as mandolin, guitar, bodhran, djembe, cajon, various folk percussion, bass, bouzouki, and anything else with folk connections.