Standing below thousands of white calla lilies that hung suspended overhead, San Francisco Symphony president Sako Fisher read a letter penned by President Barack Obama to Michael Tilson Thomas during the 70th birthday celebration benefit for the beloved music director held at Davies Symphony Hall and the new Soundbox performance venue there on Thursday, January 15. “For decades Michael Tilson Thomas has created powerful moments for audiences of all ages, with performances …that capture our emotions, ignite our imaginations, and stir within us a desire to be our best selves,” read Fisher. Stanlee Gatti devised the modern decor for the party that included copious amounts of blue, Tilson Thomas’ favorite color, and table centerpieces created out of the celebrated composer’s initials.

By Diane Dorrans Saeks

Pictured: Sako Fisher at the birthday party benefit thrown by the San Francisco Symphony for Michael Tilson Thomas
Photo by: Moanalani Jeffrey