Reuben Anelay’s (Cubitt 2021) musical journey is one defined by curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to embrace every opportunity that comes his way. A young trumpet player based near London, Reuben’s relationship with the instrument began early: after hearing a recording of Alison Balsom OBE (world-renowned, award-winning English classical trumpeter) as a small child and asking his mother if he could play “that instrument”, he started trumpet lessons at the age of six. These lessons laid strong foundations that were further developed at Cranleigh, and during his time there, he was awarded the Helen Wareham Award (Brass), an early recognition of both his talent and potential.
From Cranleigh, Reuben progressed to the Royal Academy of Music, studying with Head of Brass Mark David. He completed his undergraduate degree in 2025 and is now continuing his studies at the Academy at Master’s level, further refining his craft while building an increasingly impressive professional portfolio. While he enjoys playing guitar and bass for fun, and previously played the piano, Reuben has found that the realities of conservatoire training demand a high level of specialisation. Rather than spreading himself across instruments, he has channelled that versatility into the trumpet itself, performing on a collection of six different trumpets in various keys, each serving a distinct musical role.
Passionate about the versatility of the trumpet, Reuben thrives across a wide range of musical styles. During his time at the Academy, he has performed under internationally renowned conductors including John Wilson, Edward Gardner, Semyon Bychkov, and Sir Mark Elder. His solo and ensemble work has seen him collaborate with celebrated groups such as Septura, the Academy Percussion Ensemble, and feature as lead trumpet on the commercial music project A Capitol Reprise, directed by Mike Lovatt.
Alongside his studies, Reuben has already worked with many of the UK’s leading ensembles, including The Hanover Band, The English National Opera, the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, and the London Musical Theatre Orchestra. His performances have taken him to some of the country’s most iconic venues, from the Royal Albert Hall and Bridgewater Hall to Snape Maltings and the Hammersmith Apollo.
Recent highlights underline both his musical range and growing reputation. These include performing the natural trumpet solo “The Trumpet Shall Sound” in Handel’s Messiah at St Martin-in-the-Fields with the renowned choir and period-instrument orchestra The Sixteen, as well as a series of Christmas Oratorios as first natural trumpet with The Hanover Band. He is also currently on trial for the permanent second trumpet seat with The Hallé Orchestra in Manchester — a significant milestone at this stage of his career.
Life as a professional trumpet player is not without its lighter moments, and Reuben’s experiences reflect the unique character of the profession: ushering in the New Year mid-concert in China — with the first half spanning midnight and crossing from 2024 into 2025 — witnessing an ill-fated attempt to navigate a porta-loo in white tie and tails, and even sprinting between a concert hall and hotel in pursuit of a single missing black leather shoe.
Looking ahead, Reuben remains optimistic and excited about what lies ahead. Forthcoming projects include further natural trumpet work, a trip to Paris, and another international venture yet to be announced. Currently living in Hindhead, he balances his musical life with time spent with friends, watching cricket and rugby, and getting out on the water as he develops his skills in Cornish Pilot Gig Rowing.
Reuben’s story is one of momentum, enthusiasm, and openness to opportunity — a wonderful example of where a Cranleigh education can lead, and an inspiring journey still very much in progress.
Enjoy some of his performances here:
Academy Baroque Ensemble performs Purcell’s ‘Hail Bright Cecilia’ with the Dunedin Consort and John Butt. 1st Trumpet (natural trumpet).
https://youtu.be/bbyYNWLrVew?si=H2VMNaC3lgB8wGbD
Academy Symphony Orchestra performs Rimsky-Korsakov’s ‘Scheherazade’ conducted by John Wilson. 1st Trumpet.
https://youtu.be/iyb5mz3ef50?si=LeYSgEHGEGs54rto
Academy Symphony Orchestra performs Ravel’s ‘Bolero’ conducted by John Wilson. Piccolo trumpet.
https://youtu.be/4FpRsoYEsDs?si=lpf9PnAglHIkKrJL
Berkeley Brass perform Joy Webb’s ‘Share My Yoke’. Soloist.