Bay Area Arts Pulse

SF Symphony leadership change — Elim Chan appointed music director

SF Symphony leadership change — Elim Chan appointed music director

Key Questions

Who was appointed as the new music director of the San Francisco Symphony?

Elim Chan was named the next music director, marking her as the first woman to lead a Big 7 US orchestra.

What makes Elim Chan's appointment historic?

She is the first female music director of the San Francisco Symphony and the first woman to lead any Big 7 US orchestra, with strong Asian American ties.

What does Elim Chan's appointment signal for the SF Symphony?

It signals a fresh post-Salonen direction with a young, dynamic international conductor and critical acclaim amid pandemic recovery efforts.

Where was the announcement event for Elim Chan held?

San Francisco's arts and philanthropy communities gathered at The Ritz Carlton San Francisco for the event on March 14.

What challenges does the SF Symphony face post-appointment?

The institution continues addressing pandemic recovery and broader organizational challenges.

Elim Chan named SF Symphony's next music director, first woman to lead a Big 7 US orchestra. Young, dynamic international pick signaling fresh post-Salonen direction with strong Asian American ties and critical acclaim. Article adds context on pandemic recovery and institutional challenges.

Sources (3)
Updated May 23, 2026