Growing up in High Point, Leroy Sellers learned about many things in the world of music. However, he had to learn the hard way about racism in the music industry. Sellers, a retired professional violinist, faced bigotry throughout his career spanning over 50 years. He integrated the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra in 1963, along with another Black musician, facing threats and discrimination along the way.
Despite the challenges, Sellers persevered, relying on his musical talent, hard work, and determination to be judged by the quality of his music rather than the color of his skin. He emphasized that qualifications and skills should be the only basis for judgment, regardless of race. Sellers, a native of High Point, began his musical journey at Fairview Elementary School, where he learned to play the trumpet. He also played the trumpet and the French horn at William Penn High School, participating in various musical ensembles.
Sellers’ love for classical music was ignited during a visit to William Penn, where he overheard the chorus and orchestra rehearsing together. Impressed by the sound, he developed a deep appreciation for classical music that lasted throughout his life. After graduating from William Penn, Sellers pursued a degree in music education from Tennessee State University. He later taught music in Mobile, Alabama, before moving to Charlotte in 1963.
It was in Charlotte that Sellers audaciously auditioned for the all-white Charlotte Symphony and successfully secured a place. While he and fellow Black cellist Sam Davis were treated well by their fellow musicians for the most part, they faced instances of being relegated to less prominent positions during performances. Sellers also highlighted the ongoing underrepresentation of Black musicians in symphonies.
Even though he encountered bias, Sellers fought against the perception that Black musicians were limited to certain genres. His musical talent enabled him to enjoy a ten-year tenure with the Charlotte Symphony and perform for other regional symphonies, including the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra. Sellers’ dedication to music education led him to teach in public schools and mentor aspiring musicians, regardless of their race.
Now retired, Sellers remains actively involved in music, providing free mentorship and materials to young individuals pursuing careers in music. He continues to defy racial stereotypes and shows that a person’s color should not hinder their aspirations or abilities. Sixty years after his integration of the Charlotte Symphony, Sellers acknowledges that progress has been made but recognizes the long road ahead to achieve greater diversity and inclusivity in the classical music world.
Sellers’ experiences shed light on the enduring challenges faced by Black musicians in the realm of classical music. Through his resilience and unwavering passion, Sellers has not only left a lasting legacy but also paved the way for future generations to break barriers and pursue their musical dreams, regardless of their racial background.
