He's known as "the Jackie Robinson of Classical Music." During segregation, he played bass in what became the Colorado Symphony. Charlie Burrell paved the way for other African-American musicians in the United States. On Friday, October 4, the Colorado Symphony celebrates Burrell's 99th birthday with a special concert. This interview is from 2006 while Burrell was working on his memoir about his legacy and love for both classical and jazz music.
