A grassroots organization called the San Francisco Symphony Patrons Alliance has launched a new website, SaveSFS.com, aimed at raising awareness of the growing crisis at the San Francisco Symphony (SFS).
In March, famed conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen said he would not renew his contract with SFS, a move widely attributed to differences with the orchestra’s board over budget cuts and programming shifts. More recently, rumors have circulated of a potential merger between SFS and San Francisco Opera, and the American Guild of Musical Artists published an open letter firing warning shots over an alleged proposal to cut the San Francisco Symphony Chorus budget for 80%.
The new website contains information and third-party resources to educate about the crisis. It also states there will be meetings and events in the future to stoke audience advocacy, and supporters should “be ready to take action” in the coming weeks.
