Celebrating a Musical Giant: Reflections on the MTT Farewell Concert

Credits: Christopher M. Howard and Stefan Cohen

Dear Friends,

I’m thrilled to share one of the most meaningful experiences of my career: the recent celebratory concert honoring Michael Tilson Thomas (MTT), where I had the privilege of sharing the stage with the phenomenal Sasha Cooke and the legendary Frederica von Stade (Flicka).

This wasn’t just another concert — it was, without a doubt, one of the most magical and profoundly musical moments I’ve ever lived. I’ve known MTT since my first audition for him in 2015, and over the years we’ve developed a musical shorthand, an unspoken language shaped by trust and shared artistry.

That night, surrounded by the San Francisco Symphony, an orchestra that has known MTT for decades, we weren’t simply performing for the audience; we were making music for each other, a family moment of collective gratitude. And the stakes were high: it was MTT’s final concert with us, raising the artistic bar to the highest level.

“John Wilson’s casual virtuosity on piano, positioned right in front of the conductor, was a highlight of the ‘Russian Dance’...”

— San Francisco Chronicle, Datebook

“[Sasha] Cooke found a soulful groove with pianist John Wilson.”

— Seen and Heard International

Sharing the stage with Sasha and Flicka’s beloved presence, I felt the true power of live performance — a reminder that music isn’t just about notes or technique; it’s about connection, memory, and the stories we carry forward.

I’m grateful beyond words: for MTT’s visionary leadership, for my extraordinary colleagues, and for you — the audiences who sustain and inspire this work. Together, we carry forward the legacy of American artistry, one performance at a time.

On stage with Melissa Kleinbart and Amos Yang

Upcoming Performances

San Francisco Symphony — May 23–25
Salonen Conducts The Firebird

Merced Symphony — June 1

Midsummer Mozart Festival — June 25–27
Mozart Piano Concerto No. 23, K 488 in A Major
With guest conductor Ryan Murray

Merced Symphony — August 17
Midsummer Series

San Francisco Philharmonic — October 4
Beethoven Triple Concerto