Written By Sason Bishope Parry
San Francisco, CA
The San Francisco Symphony (SFS) is thrilled to unveil its 2025–26 season, a dazzling lineup of orchestral masterpieces, world premieres, and innovative performances that will captivate audiences from September 4, 2025, through June 28, 2026. This season promises to be a celebration of music’s power to inspire, connect, and transform, featuring 23 guest conductors, including six making their Orchestral Series debuts, alongside a star-studded roster of returning and debut guest artists.
From the timeless genius of Beethoven and Mozart to groundbreaking new works by today’s most exciting composers, the 2025–26 season is a journey through the past, present, and future of orchestral music. Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store:
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS
Opening Night Gala: A Spectacular Start
Kick off the season in style with the Opening Night Gala on Friday, September 12, led by conductor Jaap van Zweden and featuring the electrifying Yuja Wang performing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. The program also includes John Adams’ exhilarating Short Ride in a Fast Machine and Respighi’s majestic Pines of Rome, transporting audiences to the heart of Italy.
SFS Musicians Take the Spotlight
This season, three of the Symphony’s own virtuosos step into the limelight:
· Principal Trombone Timothy Higgins showcases his talents as both composer and soloist, presenting the world premiere of his new work, Market Street, 1920s, and performing the U.S. premiere of Jimmy López’s trombone concerto, Shift.
· Principal Trumpet Mark Inouye shines in Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 1, a dazzling double concerto featuring pianist Seong-Jin Cho.
· Principal Flute Yubeen Kim makes his solo debut with the SFS, performing J.S. Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 and Jacques Ibert’s Flute Concerto.
World and U.S. Premieres
The season features two world premieres and two U.S. premieres, including:
· Timothy Higgins’ Market Street, 1920s, a vibrant exploration of American culture.
· A new work by Tyler Taylor, winner of the Emerging Black Composers Project, celebrating the next generation of musical voices.
· Outi Tarkiainen’s The Rapids of Life, a poignant reflection on birth and new beginnings.
· Jimmy López’s Shift, a trombone concerto inspired by the bustling streets of Lima, Peru.
Beethoven and Mozart: A Timeless Legacy
The season delves into the works of two giants of classical music:
· Jaap van Zweden launches a three-season Beethoven Symphony Cycle, beginning with Symphonies Nos. 2 & 7 in February 2026.
· Manfred Honeck leads a dramatic production of Mozart’s Requiem, blending music, narration, and Gregorian chant for a truly immersive experience.
Cross-Cultural Currents
Explore the rich tapestry of global influences with programs like:
· James Gaffigan’s celebration of American music, featuring works by Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, and Carlos Simon.
· Miguel Harth-Bedoya’s journey through Spain and South America, with music by Maurice Ravel, Joaquín Turina, and Alberto Ginastera.
Great Performers Series
The season’s Great Performers Series features recitals and orchestral performances by some of the world’s most celebrated artists, including:
· Joshua Bell with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields.
· Yuja Wang with the Mahler Chamber Orchestra.
· Itzhak Perlman and Yo-Yo Ma in special event performances.
SoundBox: Innovation and Intimacy
The groundbreaking SoundBox series returns with programs curated by violinist Alexi Kenney and composer Gabriella Smith, offering a unique blend of music, lighting, and multimedia in an intimate setting.
Films with Live Orchestra
Experience iconic films like The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Coco, and Barbie with live orchestral accompaniment, bringing these beloved stories to life in a whole new way.
SEASON OPENING PERFORMANCES
Opening Night Gala with Yuja Wang
Friday, September 12 Conductor Jaap van Zweden and the SFS welcome Yuja Wang for a thrilling performance of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, alongside John Adams’ Short Ride in a Fast Machine and Respighi’s Pines of Rome.
All San Francisco Concert
Thursday, September 11 This annual event honors Bay Area nonprofits and community organizations, offering subsidized tickets to celebrate the Symphony’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
WHY THIS SEASON IS UNMISSABLE
· Dynamic Conductors: From Jaap van Zweden to Manfred Honeck, 23 guest conductors bring fresh perspectives to the podium.
· Star Soloists: Yuja Wang, Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, and more grace the stage.
· New Voices: World premieres by Timothy Higgins and Tyler Taylor highlight the Symphony’s commitment to innovation.
· Timeless Classics: Beethoven, Mozart, Mahler, and more remind us why these works endure.
· Unique Experiences: From SoundBox to Films with Live Orchestra, the season offers something for everyone.
ON SALE DATES
· Subscriptions: Available starting Thursday, March 20, 2025.
· Single Tickets: On sale July 19, 2025.
A MESSAGE FROM CEO MATTHEW SPIVEY
“The 2025–26 season is a celebration of the San Francisco Symphony’s artistry, innovation, and community. From the timeless works of Beethoven and Mozart to groundbreaking new compositions, this season offers a rich tapestry of musical experiences. We’re thrilled to welcome back beloved artists and introduce new voices, ensuring that every performance is unforgettable. Join us as we explore the power of music to inspire, connect, and transform.”
DON’T MISS A NOTE
Visit sfsymphony.org for full season details, subscription packages, and more. The San Francisco Symphony’s 2025–26 season is your invitation to experience the magic of live orchestral music. Be there. Be inspired.
