Michael Tilson Thomas

Biography

Michael Tilson Thomas was a renowned American conductor, composer, pianist, and music pedagogue. He founded the New World Symphony in 1987, serving as artistic director until 2022, and held prominent positions with the London Symphony Orchestra and San Francisco Symphony. Thomas was known for his innovative approach to contemporary music, recording works by Aaron Copland, Charles Ives, and Steve Reich, and for his collaborations with artists like Elvis Costello and Metallica.