“San Francisco Symphony Choral Director Ragnar Bohlin is resigning because of vaccine mandate policies instituted by both the company and the city of San Francisco, the Symphony announced,” writes Lily Janiak in Friday’s (8/20) San Francisco Chronicle. “His term concludes at the end of the month, ending a 14-year tenure. Bohlin has expressed outspoken opposition to COVID vaccines on his Facebook page over the course of the pandemic; in the 24 hours before his exit was announced, he shared at least eight posts questioning or criticizing COVID vaccines (which are widely viewed as safe and helpful by medical professionals). Symphony spokesperson Robin Freeman confirmed that the reason for Bohlin’s departure was the vaccine mandate…. On Aug. 3, the Symphony announced a vaccine mandate for audience members. On Aug. 12, San Francisco city officials introduced a mandate for indoor venues that seat more than 1,000—which includes Davies Symphony Hall…. ‘He is a gifted and expressive musician and has led the San Francisco Symphony Chorus through countless artistic achievements and memorable performances,’ Symphony Interim CEO Matthew Spivey said…. Bohlin said he has secured an organist position in Sweden and that he will be guest-conducting the Ericson Chamber Choir there in December.”
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