The classical music world is abuzz as two of America's premier orchestras, the San Francisco Symphony and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, begin their 2026 seasons with new music directors at the helm. The San Francisco Symphony has appointed Hong Kong native Elim Chan, 39, as its first female music director in its 115-year history. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Philharmonic has chosen British conductor Daniel Harding, 51, to lead the orchestra. Both appointments have generated excitement and curiosity among classical music enthusiasts.
Elim Chan, a dynamic and effervescent conductor, brings a unique perspective to her new role. A graduate of Smith College in Massachusetts, Chan discovered her passion for conducting by chance while studying there. She went on to earn her doctoral degree at the University of Michigan, becoming the first woman to win the Donatella Flick Conducting Competition. Chan's approach to music-making is characterized by her emphasis on heart and soul, as evident in her work with the San Francisco Symphony. She is committed to making classical music more accessible and engaging for a wider audience.
Chan's appointment as music director of the San Francisco Symphony marks a significant departure from the orchestra's traditional approach to leadership. According to Joshua Kosman, retired classical music critic for the San Francisco Chronicle, the orchestra's choice of Chan is a bold move, as she is relatively unknown but has already demonstrated her talent through several guest appearances. Chan's selection also reflects a shift towards a more diverse and inclusive approach to leadership, as she is the first woman to lead the orchestra in its history.
Daniel Harding, the new music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the orchestra. With a career spanning over three decades, Harding has worked with some of the world's most renowned ensembles, including the Berlin Philharmonic. His relationship with the Los Angeles Philharmonic dates back to the 1990s, and he has previously led the orchestra in several performances. Harding's approach to music-making is characterized by his emphasis on the music itself, and he is known for his ability to bring out the best in his musicians.
Harding's appointment as music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic has been seen as a "safer" choice compared to Chan's appointment in San Francisco. However, according to Kosman, Harding's selection is not necessarily a conservative choice, as the Los Angeles Philharmonic has a history of taking risks on young and talented conductors. Harding's personality is more reserved compared to Chan's effusive nature, but he is known for his wry sense of humor and his passion for music.
Both Chan and Harding are committed to making classical music more engaging and accessible for a wider audience. Chan has expressed her desire to create a "wow factor" in her performances, while Harding is focused on the music itself and its ability to bring people together. As they begin their new roles, both conductors will face the challenge of building a strong relationship with their respective orchestras and audiences.
The appointments of Elim Chan and Daniel Harding reflect a new era for the San Francisco Symphony and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. With their unique perspectives and approaches to music-making, both conductors are poised to make a significant impact on the classical music world. As they embark on their new roles, they will undoubtedly face challenges and opportunities that will shape the future of these two iconic orchestras.
Key points
- Elim Chan is the first woman to lead the San Francisco Symphony in its 115-year history.
- Daniel Harding has a long history with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, dating back to the 1990s.
- Both Chan and Harding are committed to making classical music more accessible and engaging for a wider audience.
