San Francisco Symphony Welcomes Elim Chan as Music Director

Elim Chan has conducted the San Francisco Symphony, marking the beginning of an exciting transition. She will officially assume the role of music director in September 2027. The classical music scene in September is bustling as orchestras launch their new seasons. Among them, the San Francisco Symphony and Los Angeles Philharmonic are preparing for significant changes.

New Leadership Announcements

Both orchestras recently announced their new music directors after extensive searches. British conductor Daniel Harding will lead the Los Angeles Philharmonic, while Hong Kong native Elim Chan will direct the San Francisco Symphony. Although it will be a year before they officially start, Chan and Harding’s appointments prompt curiosity about their potential impact on music-making.

Chan, known for her vibrant personality and unique hobby of boxing, discovered her passion for conducting while studying at Smith College in Massachusetts. Her talent became evident when she won the Donatella Flick Conducting Competition, making her the first woman to achieve this honor. Chan’s previous guest performances with the San Francisco Symphony were well received, marking her as a promising leader.

Breaking the Mold

Joshua Kosman, former classical music critic for the San Francisco Chronicle, highlights the significance of Chan’s appointment. Her selection is seen as a departure from the orchestra’s traditional approach to choosing music directors. Chan is the first woman to lead the orchestra in over a century.

Chan is committed to reconnecting with audiences by enhancing the concert experience. She believes in the excitement and novelty of live performances and aims to draw people into the concert hall.

Los Angeles Philharmonic’s New Vision

Daniel Harding’s appointment at the Los Angeles Philharmonic reflects a unique dynamic. While Chan is a bold choice for San Francisco, Harding’s selection balances tradition and innovation. Known for his musical prowess since his teens, Harding’s career spans three decades and includes notable achievements as an assistant conductor at prestigious orchestras.

Harding enjoys the artistic energy in Los Angeles and cherishes his bond with the Philharmonic. Although understated, his musical expertise promises to invigorate the orchestra’s programming.

Visionary Conductors

Both Chan and Harding bring fresh perspectives to their roles. Chan’s vibrant approach and Harding’s focus on musical excellence promise to invigorate two major American orchestras. Their distinct personalities contrast the traditional authoritarian model, heralding a new era in symphonic leadership.

Time will reveal how Chan and Harding’s unique styles will shape their orchestras, potentially offering them distinctive sounds in the symphonic landscape.