Michael Tilson Thomas has announced the imminent end of his conducting career. The 80-year-old musician, who disclosed a diagnosis of cancer in 2021, will cease performing after concerts scheduled for March and April, he announced in a letter released Monday.

Michael Tilson Thomas’ brain tumor has returned, and the 80-year-old conductor intends to lead his final performance in April.

On his website, conductor and composer Michael Tilson Thomas announced he would “wind down my public appearances” over the next two months.

After three years since announcing his initial diagnosis, San Francisco Symphony Music Director Laureate Michael Tilson Thomas’ glioblastoma brain tumor has returned, forcing the longtime conductor to officially step down from performing.

Former San Francisco Symphony director and globally celebrated conductor Michael Tilson Thomas announced on Monday that his brain tumor has returned.

Celebrated conductor and San Francisco Symphony Music Director Laureate announced he will retire from performing following the return of a brain tumor he’s been battling. In a statement posted to his website,