Ana Caballero Argente

Where are you from? 

Navarrés (Valencia, Spain) 

When did you start playing your instrument? 

I started playing trumpet and piano when I was 5 years old in my town’s music school. The reason why I ended up playing the trumpet was because my parents and my sister were playing in the local wind band and they needed brass players, especially trumpets. I initially wanted to play the flute like my mom, but she suggested I try out the trumpet first. It felt right from the start. I’m still here so many years later. 

When did you start working with Malmö Symphony Orchestra? 

2023 

What is your educational background? 

I started studying trumpet and piano at my local music school at the age of five. Later, I continued my studies in both instruments at the 'Maestro Ponce' Conservatory of Chella. In 2017, I began my Bachelor’s degree in trumpet at the 'Joaquín Rodrigo' Superior Conservatory of Valencia with professor Ricardo Ortega. I completed my final year of the Bachelor’s program at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, where I studied with Ad Welleman. In 2023, I finished my Master’s studies at the Malmö Academy of Music with professors Gustav Melander and Håkan Hardenberger.

In addition to my formal education, I’ve had the opportunity to take regular lessons with Rubén Marqués and Luis González, which have been incredibly valuable. I’ve also participated in masterclasses with renowned trumpet players like Gábor Tarkövi, Andrea Lucchi, Allen Vizzutti, Mireia Farrés, Pierre Badel, and Germán Asensi, among others.

What is your favorite memory with MSO? 

There’s been many great concerts and programs that I enjoyed very much. But the Stravinsky’s Petroushka concert that we had on February 2024 where I played as second trumpet alongside Gustav and Matteo holds a special place in my heart.

Which orchestras did you play with before joining us at Malmö Live Concert Hall? 

I’ve played with different professional orchestras, such as the Valencian Community Orchestra, Orchestra of Valencia or Copenhagen Philharmonic Orchestra.

Also, I’ve been a member of some youth orchestras like the Valencian Community Youth Orchestra (JOGV), the Spanish National Youth Orchestra (JONDE) and the European Union Youth Orchestra (EUYO).

Who is your favorite composer? 

Mahler and Strauss. 

 

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? 

I really enjoy doing yoga, it helps me stay healthy and focused. I also love reading, watching movies, and having coffee with friends. Taking walks in nature is one of my favorite things to do, and recently, I've developed a new interest in painting.
 

What is your favorite food? 

My grandma’s tortilla de patatas.

Why do you think people should listen to symphonic music? 

As a young person, I often feel this constant pressure to stay connected, with my phone almost becoming a second hand. Our minds get so distracted, often without us even realizing it, as we spend so much time on virtual and online activities, especially social media. That’s why I believe coming to the concert hall is so special. Sitting there, away from your phone for one or two hours, you can truly be in the moment and experience something physical and real. You’re present, watching the musicians perform live, hearing the music they create, and feeling an experience that is unique, something you’ll never hear exactly the same way again. I think that’s a truly valuable and precious thing to hold onto in today’s world.