In the late 1980s, a few amateur musicians in Aberdeen began gathering in each other’s homes to play chamber music. With limited local opportunities for informal orchestral playing, Joan MacDonald, Liz Duncan, and Willie and Seonaid Primrose helped found the Learig Orchestra in May 1991. The name "Learig"—meaning "edge of the field"—was a playful nod to its humble, grassroots beginnings.

Rehearsals began at Linksfield Academy, with Joan as conductor, and concerts were informal, mostly for friends and family. The orchestra quickly grew, performing in venues like Cowdray Hall and even the Fire Station, thanks to connections with Rev Donald Rennie. Over the years, a variety of conductors led the group, and they performed original works, including “Union Street 200” and “Black Triptych” by Paul Tierney, who conducted from 2004–2012.

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