Review: Brahms' Requiem emits light and peace for the living at San Francisco Symphony

... Tilson Thomas's shaping of materials was quickly evident: In the opening movement ("Blessed are they that mourn") a gentle tether seemed to connect the noble flow of the bass viols to delicate harp tones and the golden top of the chorus. You heard the detail; at the same time, you heard the structure ... ... The chorus (prepared by Ragnar Bohlin, its director) blended and glowed with subtlety and conviction throughout the performance ...