André Watts is a celebrated American classical pianist, renowned for his virtuosic technique and expressive performances, particularly in the works of Liszt, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky among others. Born on June 20, 1946, in Nuremberg, Germany, to a Hungarian mother and an African-American father, Watts moved to Philadelphia with his family where he began his music studies. His prodigious talent was evident early on, culminating in a major career breakthrough at the age of 16, when he debuted with the New York Philharmonic under the baton of Leonard Bernstein. This performance, televised as part of one of Bernstein's Young People's Concerts, propelled Watts to national acclaim.

Throughout his illustrious career, Watts has performed with nearly every major international orchestra and has amassed a discography that underscores his wide-ranging repertoire, with a particular emphasis on the Romantic era. His recordings, such as "Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, S. 124 & Les Préludes, S. 97 (Remastered)" and "Beethoven - Piano Sonatas 13, 14 & 23," showcase his technical prowess and deep musicality. Watts' concerts, such as "André Watts Live in Tokyo," highlight his ability to connect with audiences worldwide, making each performance a compelling and emotionally resonant experience. Beyond his performing career, Watts has also been dedicated to education, passing on his knowledge to the next generation of musicians. His contributions to music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, securing his place as one of the foremost pianists of his time.

Genres

American Classical Piano

Classical Piano

Latest Release

Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, S. 124 & Les Préludes, S. 97 (Remastered)

Franz Liszt•

André Watts•

Leonard Bernstein•

New York Philharmonic

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released March 30, 2018