A Symphony Under the Stars
Golden Gate Park played host to a stunning evening of music as the San Francisco Symphony kicked off its fall season with a free outdoor concert that drew over 15,000 attendees. Under the direction of conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen, the program included a diverse lineup of classical and contemporary works, highlighted by Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 and compositions by emerging modern artists.
A Festival-Like Atmosphere
The concert was accompanied by a lively festival atmosphere, with food trucks offering diverse culinary options, wine bars for adults, and pop-up art installations scattered throughout the park. Families, couples, and music lovers from all walks of life gathered to enjoy the open-air event, which was designed to bring classical music to broader audiences.
Connecting Music and Community
“This concert is our gift to the city that inspires us every day,” said Salonen. Attendees praised the accessibility of the performance, many noting it was their first opportunity to experience a symphony concert. The event highlighted the Symphony’s ongoing outreach efforts to make classical music more inclusive and engaging.
More Free Concerts Planned
City officials and the Symphony announced plans for additional free outdoor performances throughout the season, aiming to make high-caliber music a regular fixture in San Francisco’s public spaces. The night ended with a standing ovation, signaling a strong start to the Symphony’s fall season.
