08/02/2026
It is with great sadness and deep respect that we mourn the passing of a true trailblazer in the Philadelphia music scene, and one of the kindest and friendliest people who ever graced the stage. Booker Rowe was the first Black musician ever to perform in the Philadelphia Orchestra. A Philadelphia native, he was trained in the Philadelphia sound and added commitment, professionalism, and honor to the orchestra for almost fifty years. He was a dedicated teacher and chamber musician, and a true star of Philadelphia. May his memory be for a blessing.