Daily Bow: “Bassist, Trailblazer, Entrepreneur”



 

This is an incredible story about Detroit Symphony Orchestra bassist Rick Robinson, who is shifting course to energize classical music and bring it to new markets and audiecnes.

Bassist Rick Robinson has always been a trailblazer and entrepreneur.

He was just the second African-American musician in the Detroit Symphony Orchestra when he joined in 1989. Since the ’90s he has spread his wings as the founder of CutTime Productions, an umbrella for his activities as a chamber musician, concert presenter, composer, arranger, publisher, lecturer and advocate for broadening the audience for classical music.

Now Robinson, 48, is aiming higher. He’s taking a one-year leave of absence from the DSO beginning in January to devote himself full time to CutTime initiatives. He’s pursuing concerts and residencies with orchestras, music schools and others nationwide, as well as expanding his footprint in Detroit.

For Robinson, who has seen audiences for classical music diminish in size and diversity during his career, it’s about securing the future.

“Things are changing and they’re changing fast,” he said.

“We need to do more talking to audiences. We need to make classical music more intimate. I’m trying to open the hearts and minds of people and show that this music is not just for old white people.”

Check out the Original Article

We can expect to be hearing more from and about Mr. Robinson in the future!




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