Classical Musicians of African Descent

WXXI Classical 91.5 is in the process of building a resource of photos and brief biographical information about musicians of African descent. This resource is by no means complete, and we rely on you to help us build the site by sharing your information. Please click on the alphabetical groupings below to begin your discovery.

Rick Robinson, double bass

Classical 91.5 WXXO-FM | By classical intern

Published August 18, 2017 at 9:40 AM EDT

Rick Robinson began playing double bass in Detroit public schools, Interlochen Arts Academy, Cleveland Institute of Music and New England Conservatory. He held several principal positions in regional orchestras and the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra before joining the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. During his 22-year tenure he began transcribing symphonic works for his mixed octet CutTime Players. He then began composing for his string band CutTime Simfonica and performing in bars, clubs and cafes. Committed to broadening audiences for classical music in bold new ways, he resigned DSO in 2013.