Michael Tilson Thomas and the New World Symphony at Tilson Thomas’s final performance as artistic director on May 6 at the New World Center. Photo by Alex Markow, courtesy New World Symphony
“When famed conductor Michael Tilson Thomas performed his last concerts as the New World Symphony artistic director this weekend in Miami, he … welcomed a gift for the symphony he co-founded 35 years ago: $30 million,” writes Amanda Rosa in Tuesday’s (5/10) Miami Herald. “On Saturday, the Arison Arts Foundation awarded the New World Symphony with a $30 million endowment gift to commemorate Tilson Thomas’ achievements and dedication to the symphony. Tilson Thomas … announced in March that he will step down as artistic director next month due to health concerns. The Arison Arts Foundation, which supports artists and institutions through grants, was founded by philanthropists Ted and Lin Arison, who supported Tilson Thomas’ vision for the New World Symphony decades ago. Along with the gift, the foundation and symphony also announced a new name for the New World Center’s concert space: the Michael Tilson Thomas Performance Hall…. On June 1, Tilson Thomas will officially leave his role as artistic director….Tilson Thomas, 77, had undergone treatment for glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive form of brain cancer…. The New World Symphony, which was founded in 1987, is an ensemble and intensive three-year fellowship program for music school graduates.”
