From Guildhall Young Artists to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

We are proud that Guildhall School alumna Ruby Collins has been appointed Sub-Principal Bassoon of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Ruby is truly part of the Guildhall family. She started her music education at Centre for Young Musicians (CYM), one of our Guildhall Young Artists Saturday centres, during which time she also took part in our holiday courses with the London Youth Wind Band (LYWB) and London Schools Symphony Orchestra (LSSO). Ruby then progressed to studying on the School's Bachelor of Music (Hons) programme, graduating in 2021.

To help fund her studies at CYM, Ruby received financial assistance through the Department for Education’s Music and Dance Scheme, showing the crucial role this support can play in shaping the artists of today. 

We caught up with Ruby to celebrate this brilliant achievement and to hear more about her journey from Guildhall Young Artists to professional orchestral musician at just 26 years old.

What are your favourite memories of your time at CYM?

I think my fondest memories of CYM were the people I studied with. I had such good friends at CYM and this made me look forward to going in every Saturday.

How did CYM prepare you for your career?

I was able to accumulate lots of orchestral experience through the multitude of different ensembles that CYM had to offer. We were performing multiple orchestral works every term which really exposed me to some amazing repertoire.

Why did you choose Guildhall for your undergraduate degree?

During my audition and interview at Guildhall, it just felt like the right place for me. The staff and teachers were so welcoming, and it felt like a natural continuation of my studies.

How did you find CYM’s holiday courses LYWB and LSSO?

I honestly loved them. It was such a great opportunity to make friends with other likeminded musicians and to get the chance to play amazing orchestral repertoire. Some of the people I met in LSSO, are still some of my closest friends today! 

What is a typical day like for you?

Each day as a musician is different, which is why I love it! It’s so exciting as no day is the same, and you never get bored!

With thanks to Ruby for taking the time to speak with us. If you're child is interested in following in Ruby's footsteps, be sure to apply for CYM before the deadline.