Awadagin Pratt

Awadagin Pratt (; born March 6, 1966) is an American concert pianist born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

In 1992 Pratt became the first African-American pianist to win the Naumburg International Piano Competition. Since then, "he has performed with nearly every major orchestra in this country [the United States], at the Clinton White House, Obama White House and on Sesame Street". Winning the Naumburg prize launched Pratt into a strenuous performance schedule, with 40 to 50 concerts that year and 70 the following year, when he signed with the New York City artist management firm IMG Artists. In 1994 Pratt made his debut at Lincoln Center with the New York Philharmonic.

In fall 2004 Pratt accepted a position as Assistant Professor of Piano and Artist in Residence at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, rising to the rank of Professor of Piano. His recital debut there came on December 1, 2005. Pratt joined the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in July 2023. He continues to perform up to 30 times a year across the United States and abroad. A recital on March 3, 2020, drew praises for its "old-master richness." Pratt is also an experienced conductor, having led orchestras in the US and Japan.

Performance preferences

Writers often note Pratt's appearance. "Pratt takes the stage at Boston's Jordan Hall in a subtle but colorful green-and-lavender striped and checked shirt. His black pants reveal a dash of whimsicality below the cuffs: socks adorned with a portrait of Van Gogh".