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Michael Tilson Thomas, conductor and composer, dies at 81

other · 2026-04-24

Michael Tilson Thomas, the renowned American conductor and composer, has died at the age of 81. His career spanned decades, including leadership of the San Francisco Symphony and the New World Symphony. He was known for his interpretations of classical and contemporary works.

Key facts

  • Michael Tilson Thomas died in 2026 at age 81.
  • He was a conductor and composer.
  • He led the San Francisco Symphony.
  • He founded the New World Symphony.
  • He was born in 1944.
  • He was known for contemporary music advocacy.
  • He won multiple Grammy Awards.
  • He had a long career in classical music.

Entities

Artists

  • Michael Tilson Thomas

Institutions

  • San Francisco Symphony
  • New World Symphony
  • The Washington Post
  • Yahoo

Locations

  • San Francisco
  • Miami
  • United States

Sources