Remembering Michael Tilson Thomas: A Celebration at the San Francisco Symphony
On a remarkable day in San Francisco, Mayor Daniel Lurie honored Michael Tilson Thomas by declaring it “Michael Tilson Thomas Day.” The celebration illuminated City Hall in the conductor’s iconic blue, while giant balloons adorned Davies Symphony Hall, a venue significant to his illustrious career.
A Triumphant Farewell
Michael Tilson Thomas (MTT) had declared in February that last Saturday’s gala concert would mark his final public performance. Despite his battle with aggressive brain cancer that began in the summer of 2021, he astonishingly continued to conduct across the United States and Europe for three and a half years. However, in February, he learned of the recurrence of his tumor, prompting this poignant farewell.
Accompanied by his husband, Joshua Robison, who remained vigilantly seated on stage, Tilson Thomas took to the podium to commence the evening with Benjamin Britten’s Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Purcell, popularly known as “The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.” The concert built towards an exhilarating conclusion with Respighi’s vibrant Roman Festivals, embodying excellence and spectacle.
A Legacy in American Music
For sixty years, MTT has been a transformative figure in American music, influencing both audiences and musicians alike. His ability to connect diverse musical styles—from John Cage to James Brown—has set him apart as an unparalleled conductor. Tilson Thomas has also significantly impacted countless young musicians, championing the underrepresented voices in American music.
This concert, while limited in scope, revealed the essence of MTT’s musical philosophies. His performance of Young Person’s Guide showcased a deep appreciation for orchestral sound and a longstanding commitment to education. Early in his career, he engaged audiences with his enthusiasm—something that resonated well during his tenure at the Boston Symphony and later as the host of Young People’s Concerts at the New York Philharmonic.
Innovator and Educator
In 1987, he founded the New World Symphony in Miami Beach, a training orchestra that has significantly contributed to redefining orchestral music in America. His former students now actively shape the contemporary classical music scene, including notable initiatives like the Koreatown new music series.
With young conductor Teddy Abrams assisting him, Tilson Thomas enriched the evening’s experience, using Young Person’s Guide more as an avenue for seasoned musicianship than a mere educational tool. The performances collectively conveyed a heartfelt tribute to MTT, culminating in a sense of celebration woven throughout the program.
Musical Reflections and Future Aspirations
Throughout the event, various tributes were shared, culminating in performances that highlighted not only MTT’s compositions but also works that gained recognition under his guidance. A poignant moment came with a rendition of Tilson Thomas’ song “Grace,” originally written for Leonard Bernstein’s 70th birthday, evoking a collective embrace of gratitude.
As he led the finale with Roman Festivals, listeners experienced a rich tapestry of musical storytelling that resonated deeply. The piece, which has always been a favorite of Tilson Thomas, ended on a powerful note, as he visually engaged with the audience, granting them a lasting impression of his musical journey.
The Future of the San Francisco Symphony
Michael Tilson Thomas’ impact echoes beyond his tenure. His successor, Esa-Pekka Salonen, has embraced this visionary spirit, but current challenges faced by the orchestra’s management reveal a juncture for the San Francisco Symphony. Musicians rallied outside Davies Symphony Hall, advocating for support and emphasizing the continuation of MTT’s mission.
In a nod to both history and the future, Tilson Thomas’ closing performance articulated a powerful sentiment that resonates within the community: “We are Romans, let us pass.” His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding many that the music never truly stops.