The San Francisco Symphony, a renowned American orchestra with a rich history, was established in the year 1911 and has since evolved into a cornerstone of the city's cultural scene. Nestled in the vibrant and eclectic city of San Francisco, California, this esteemed orchestra has resided in the iconic Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall, situated in the trendy and upscale Hayes Valley neighborhood, since the year 1980.
The San Francisco Symphony is a renowned institution that comprises not one, but two esteemed ensembles, each with its own unique history and contributions to the world of classical music. The San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra, founded in the year 1981, has been providing a platform for young and talented musicians to hone their skills and share their passion with the community.
On the other hand, the San Francisco Symphony Chorus, established in 1972, has been a vital component of the orchestra's musical landscape, offering a rich and diverse range of choral performances that showcase the versatility and artistry of its members.
The San Francisco Symphony has been fortunate to have had visionary leadership since 1995, courtesy of the illustrious Michael Tilson Thomas, who has guided the orchestra with unwavering dedication and artistic prowess. Under his leadership, the orchestra has continued to thrive, pushing the boundaries of classical music and inspiring a new generation of musicians and music lovers alike.
Michael Tilson Thomas's distinguished tenure as music director of the San Francisco Symphony is poised to conclude in 2020, marking the transition to a new era under the artistic leadership of the renowned Esa-Pekka Salonen, who will assume the role of music director in the forthcoming year.
Throughout its storied history, the San Francisco Symphony has garnered an impressive array of accolades, including an Emmy Award and an astonishing 15 Grammy Awards over the past 26 years, a testament to its unwavering dedication to excellence and artistic innovation.
As a testament to its commitment to artistic excellence, the San Francisco Symphony has consistently pushed the boundaries of musical expression, fostering a creative environment that has inspired countless musicians and composers.
Under the guidance of Michael Tilson Thomas, the San Francisco Symphony has established itself as a preeminent cultural institution, renowned for its innovative programming, technical mastery, and commitment to promoting the works of contemporary composers.
As Esa-Pekka Salonen prepares to take the reins as the orchestra's next music director, the San Francisco Symphony is poised to continue its tradition of artistic excellence, building upon the foundation laid by Michael Tilson Thomas and cementing its position as one of the world's premier orchestras.
