Elim Chan Becomes First Female Music Director of San Francisco Symphony
The New York Times • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Elim Chan, a 39-year-old Hong Kong-born conductor, has been appointed music director of the San Francisco Symphony, becoming one of the few women to hold a top position in a male-dominated field.
- Chan will begin as music director-designate in June, with her official six-year term starting in September 2027, following a series of concerts at Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall.
- Her appointment comes after the departure of former music director Esa-Pekka Salonen, who stepped down amid financial challenges and differing visions for the orchestra’s future.
- Symphony CEO Matthew Spivey expressed optimism about the organization’s direction under Chan, highlighting her commitment to expanding the orchestral repertoire and programming with curiosity.
- Chan views her new role as a significant milestone for female conductors, noting that many audience members have told her it is the first time they have seen a woman conduct.