It was announced today that Michael Tilson Thomas will be leaving the San Francisco Symphony as of the 2019-2020 season.  He will become Music Director Laureate, and will continue to conduct the orchestra for four weeks each season.

Quoting from the Orchestra's web site: “Looking back over these decades I am filled with gratitude for the extraordinary artistic partnership I have had with the members of the Orchestra and for the warm and generous style of music making we have shared with all of our audiences,” said Michael Tilson Thomas.

Thomas will be 75 at the time he leaves the podium, and will be marking his 25th year with the San Francisco Symphony.

The complete press release can be read on the Orchestra's web site here.

Pianist Lang Lang is canceling concerts due to tendonitis in his left arm.  His doctor has advised him to rest the arm so as to allow it to heal.

It is not known what led to the condition, but it has been ongoing for a few months now.

One article on the subject can be found here.

The Tesla Quartet has issued their second Call for Scores.  Composers are asked to submit works written within the last 10 years, length between 5 and 20 minutes, written for 2 violins, viola and cello.  The winning piece will receive two performances next season.  In addition, the composer will receive a $500 honorarium, and a recording of the piece.

Interested composers can learn more here.

Thomas Dausgaard will replace Ludovic Morlot as conductor/music director of the Seattle Symphony.  Dausgaard is known to the orchestra, having already served as Principal Guest Conductor.  He will take over at the beginning of the 2019/2020 season.

More from the Seattle Times here.

Brenda Barnes, longtime manager of classical KUSC, is moving to Seattle to take the reins of KING-FM.

The Seattle Times has details here.