Andre Watts, one of the first black superstars in classical music, died Wednesday at his home in Bloomington, Ind. He was 77 and died of prostate cancer, according to his wife.
Watts had an electric stage presence, often moving to the music with his head and feet, drawing criticism from more conservative critics. But his technical prowess overcame these quibbles and propelled him into the high spheres of concert halls.
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In 1963 he won an audition to appear with Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic on the national television series Young People’s Concerts. He was 16, but his performance that day was praised and he soon received a bigger boost.
Bernstein invited him to make his official debut at the Philharmonie, replacing pianist Glenn Gould. It went well and his career was secure.
Her mother was a dominant influence in her success. She worked as a receptionist at an art gallery to help pay for her piano lessons, following a strict practice regimen.
In 1964, a year after his debut with Bernstein, Watts won a Grammy Award for Most Promising New Classical Artist.
Survivors include his wife, Joan Brand Watts, a stepson, William Dalton; a daughter-in-law, Amanda Rees; and seven step-grandchildren.
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