Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas Dies

Thomas was widely considered one of the most distinguished and influential conductors of his generation, known for his advocacy of American repertoire and his innovative approach to classical music.

He burst onto the scene in 1969 with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and went on to head major orchestras in London, Miami, and Buffalo.

In 2021, he was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme, but continued to perform and record until his final months.

His death marks the end of an era for the San Francisco Symphony, which he helped transform into a world-class institution during his long and storied tenure.