Pelosi Statement on Michael Tilson Thomas of San Francisco Symphony Being Awarded National Medal of Arts

Pelosi Statement on Michael Tilson Thomas of San Francisco Symphony Being Awarded National Medal of Arts

WASHINGTON, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on Michael Tilson Thomas, Music Director of the San Francisco Symphony, who will be awarded the National Medal of Arts tomorrow by President Barack Obama. Speaker Pelosi nominated Thomas for the honor.

"Michael Tilson Thomas has brought pride to all San Franciscans as President Obama honors him as a recipient of a National Medal of Arts. Thomas has been a remarkable mentor and supporter to many young artists, and he has educated millions about the joy of music. His tenure at the San Francisco Symphony has been marked by artistic excellence.

"President John F. Kennedy once said: 'The life of the arts -- far from being an interruption in the life of a nation -- is very close to the center of a nation's purpose.' As we recognize Michael Tilson Thomas and other artists, we honor them for enriching our lives, our country, and our world with their creativity."

Source: Office of the Speaker of the House

CONTACT: Brendan Daly, Nadeam Elshami, or Drew Hammill, +1-202-226-7616,
all of the Office of the Speaker of the House

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