Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, first established in 1898, emerged at the New England Conservatory of Music, renowned for its emphasis on music education and training. The fraternity was born from a desire to create a brotherhood among male musicians, fostering both their personal and musical development. The founding group, led by Ossian Everett Mills, recognized the importance of solidarity and support among aspiring musicians, which led to the fraternity’s creation as the largest of its kind in the United States. Law and the fraternity were initially focused on providing a structure that would allow members to engage in musical pursuits actively and support one another through their education.

As Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia grew, it became an influential entity in educational and music circles, promoting not only musical excellence but also community service and philanthropy related to music. Over the years, the fraternity expanded its reach, establishing chapters in various colleges and universities, which spread its ideals of brotherhood, music appreciation, and high standards within the field. Their motto, ‘Music is the business of the fraternity,’ underscored the melding of artistry and solidarity, pushing members to strive for not just personal success but also to uplift their peers.

With a focus on both professional growth and cultural contributions, the fraternity has had a lasting impact on many musicians' lives, leading them to significant achievements within the music community. It has an ethos centered around education, unity, and devotion to the art of music that continues to influence its activities to this day. The fraternity has also taken an active role in advocating for music awareness and education, illustrating the profound belief in music’s societal importance over the decades.