Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas has surgery for brain tumor

By Associated Press |

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Michael Tilson Thomas

Michael Tilson Thomas (Photo: Art Streiber)

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas has undergone surgery for a brain tumor. Tilson Thomas’ spokeswoman, Constance Shuman, said in a statement that the 76-year-old conductor had surgery at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center, and that the operation was successful. Shuman says Thomas’ medical team is exploring all possible treatment options. Tilson Thomas has withdrawn from performances through October. He founded the New World Symphony in Miami Beach, Florida, in 1987 and remains artistic director. He was formerly music director of the San Francisco Symphony.


Michael Tilson Thomas was scheduled to conduct the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in two programs in late October. Because of his surgery, he has withdrawn from these performances, among others. The CSO has yet to announce the programming that will occur in these performances’ place.