Program 872: In Remembrance: The Musical Life of Michael Tilson Thomas
KALW Broadcast Date: May 3, 2026 | Host: Ed Herrmann
This program honors the extraordinary musical life of Michael Tilson Thomas. As Music Director for the San Francisco Symphony for 25 years, MTT brought a commitment to American composers, innovative programming, and community engagement. Although best known as a conductor, pianist, educator, and tireless advocate for music, this program will focus on MTT’s compositions, which reflect his joy and omnivorous taste in music. Featured works include Island Music for marimbas and percussion, Agnegram for orchestra, Street Song for brass ensemble, and the song Grace, written for Leonard Bernstein.
Program Audio
30-Second Spot
Track Info & Links
Title: Agnegram
Composer: Michael Tilson Thomas
Performers: San Francisco Symphony, MTT conductor
Recording Title: Grace
Record Label: Pentatone
Catalog Number: PTC 5187 355
Title: Urban Legend
Composer: Michael Tilson Thomas
Performers: Pat Posey, members of SF Symphony, Edwin Outwater, conductor
Recording Title: Grace
Record Label: Pentatone
Catalog Number: PTC 5187 355
Title: Street Song
Composer: Michael Tilson Thomas
Performers: Bay Brass
Recording Title: Grace
Record Label: Pentatone
Catalog Number: PTC 5187 355
Title: Lope
Composer: Michael Tilson Thomas
Performers: New World Symphony, MTT, conductor
Record Label: Pentatone
Catalog Number: PTC 5187 355
Title: Symphony Cowgirl
Composer: Michael Tilson Thomas
Performers: Lisa Vroman, voice, SF Symphony, MTT conductor
Recording Title: Grace
Record Label: Pentatone
Catalog Number: PTC 5187 355
Title: Island Music
Composer: Michael Tilson Thomas
Performers: Nancy Zeltsman and Jack Van Geem, marimbas, members of SF Symphony percussion
Recording Title: Grace
Record Label: Pentatone
Catalog Number: PTC 5187 355
Title: Upon Further Reflection
Composer: Michael Tilson Thomas
Performers: John Wilson
Recording Title: Grace
Record Label: Pentatone
Catalog Number: PTC 5187 355
Title: Grace
Composer: Michael Tilson Thomas
Performers: Sasha Cooke, voice; Jean-Yves Thibaudet, piano
Recording Title: Grace
Record Label: Pentatone
Catalog Number: PTC 5187 355
