WATCH: Charlie Burrell, American symphonies’ first black musician

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Charles Burrell at home. Oct. 20, 2016.

Charles Burrell at home. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite) music; jazz; five points; history; kevinjbeaty; denverite; denver; colorado

Charlie Burrell was the first African American to ever take a symphony contract and performed in Colorado’s first integrated jazz trio.

Burrell, often referred to as the “Jackie Robinson of music,” opened the door for many black musicians to follow in his footsteps, including his cousin — the accomplished jazz bandleader Purnell Steen.

Watch as Burrell and Steen discuss hardships faced in past times, seen through the lens of today’s political and social climate.

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Denverite members have made the decision to financially support local journalism that matters to you. Ready to tell your networks why? Sharing our “About” page with your own personal comments could really help us out.