Charles Burrell, the classical and jazz bass player and the first African-American member of a major American symphony, died early Tuesday at age 104. His passing was confirmed by Burrell's cousin Purnell Steen.

Charles Burrell was known as the "Jackie Robinson of classical music," both for his talent and the barriers he broke. He was also a cornerstone in the jazz scene in Denver's Five Points neighborhood.

Legendary bassist Charles Burrell, the first Black member of Denver Symphony Orchestra in 1949, has died at the age of 104. Burrell was the first African American to sign a