San Francisco Symphony Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas’ brain tumor has returned, he says, and the 80-year-old intends to lead his final performance in April.

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,

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