Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas dies at 81

The classical music community is mourning the passing of Michael Tilson Thomas, who died at his home in San Francisco following a battle with brain cancer.

Thomas was renowned for his innovative programming and his efforts to make classical music accessible to a broader audience through television and digital media.

In addition to his tenure in San Francisco, he held leadership roles with the London Symphony Orchestra and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

His legacy includes a vast discography and the founding of the New World Symphony, an orchestral academy for young musicians.