Michael Tilson Thomas conducts the New World Symphony in Miami Beach, Florida. Photo by Rui Dias-Aidos
“San Francisco Symphony Music Director Laureate Michael Tilson Thomas announced he has been diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive form of brain cancer, according to an open letter released Wednesday, March 2,” writes Joshua Kosman in Wednesday’s (3/2) San Francisco Chronicle. “This is the first time [he] has spoken publicly about the cancer that led him to withdraw from public appearances for three months in 2021. In August, 77-year-old Thomas had surgery … followed by a course of radiation and chemotherapy. ‘Currently, the cancer is in check,’ he writes. ‘But the future is uncertain as glioblastoma is a stealthy adversary. Its recurrence is, unfortunately, the rule rather than the exception.’ … Thomas has decided to step down as artistic director of New World Symphony, the Miami training orchestra that he co-founded and has headed for 34 years. He will assume the title of artistic director laureate…. Since … November, Thomas has conducted 20 concerts with the San Francisco Symphony, the New York Philharmonic and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.… He adds that these performances have made demands on his strength, and that it’s time ‘to consider what level of work and responsibilities I can sustain.’ ”
