Colin began his musical journey as a cellist before studying double bass with Thomas Martin at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Whilst in the final year of his studies, he was offered a position with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. He later went on to play with the BBC Concert Orchestra and freelanced with the major symphony and chamber orchestras in London, including holding the position of Principal Bass with the London Bach Orchestra.

In 1983, Colin became Sub-Principal with the English National Opera Orchestra, remaining there until he joined the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) in 1988. He served on the LSO Board for 14 years, mostly as Vice Chairman, and has also performed as Guest Principal double bass with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, English National Opera Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Colin has played with various jazz and chamber music ensembles, including notable performances of The Trout Quintet at the Barbican Centre and a duet with Grammy-winning jazz bassist John Patitucci at LSO St. Luke's.