"Esa-Pekka Salonen Announces Departure from San Francisco Symphony"

Esa-Pekka Salonen, the music director of the San Francisco Symphony, has announced his decision to step down when his contract expires next year, citing differences with the orchestra's board over cost-cutting measures and programming shifts. Salonen, known for his innovative approach to music and technology, expressed that he no longer shares the same goals for the institution's future as the board does. The split highlights the challenges faced by symphony orchestras in the wake of the pandemic and raises questions about the orchestra's ability to achieve Salonen's expansive vision.