Obituary: Sir Roger Norrington

Michael Tilson Thomas, the American conductor, composer and educator, has died at the age of 81.

The Swedish-born ballet star shaped generations of dancers and left a lasting imprint on British and international ballet. 

The conductor who transformed The Cleveland Orchestra into one of the world's leading ensembles died on 6th September 2025, just two days before his 96th birthday.

The composer of scores for films such as Mission: Impossible, Bullitt, Cool Hand Luke and Dirty Harry has died aged 93.

Bachtrack founder Alison Karlin remembers Simon Majaro, founder of the Cavatina Chamber Music Trust, who provided moral and practical support in Bachtrack’s early days. 

Particularly respected for his knowledge of sought-after instruments by Stradivari and Guarneri, Beare’s opinions were valued by leading soloists.