A Paul Newman of the music world, pianist Andre Watts exudes style, smarts, and gravitas. He'll apply his considerable powers to the "Emperor" Concerto, Beethoven's fifth and last, in an appearance with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Christopher Seaman leads the orchestra in the hyper-forceful "Festive Overture" by Shostakovich and Dvorak's "New World" symphony. This marks the first time Watts has appeared in Rochester since 1992.

The RPO performs Friday and Saturday, October 10-11, 8 p.m., at the Eastman Theatre, 60 Gibbs St. Tickets cost $19-$60. 454-2100, rpo.org.