A flute that featured on The Beatles' 1967 track 'The Fool On The Hill' and later played the 'Nutcracker Suite' for a classic 1970s Cadbury's television advertisement is to be sold at auction.
The instrument, custom-made by renowned British flute maker Arthur Cooper, was owned by leading flautist Jack Ellory until his death in 2009. It is expected to fetch between £10,000 and £20,000.
Ellory was a highly sought-after session musician, playing on numerous classical and popular recordings, film soundtracks, and live performances. His work included soundtracks for Sean Connery-era James Bond films, Pink Panther films, episodes of 1960s The Avengers, and the film musical Oliver!
In 1967, Beatles producer George Martin asked Ellory to play flute for Paul McCartney's 'The Fool On The Hill', recorded for the Magical Mystery Tour project. The flute also featured in the Cadbury's 'fruit and nutcase' campaign, playing an excerpt from the 'Nutcracker Suite' while humourist Frank Muir sang.
Brian Ellory, Jack's son, said: 'I inherited my father’s flute in 2009. It was in a bit of a state, held together by elastic bands, so I had it completely overhauled. I wanted to learn to play it but soon found I had no talent. I hope it goes to someone who can make music with it and who appreciates its incredible history.'
Auctioneer Jamie South from Gardiner Houlgate commented: 'This is a remarkable instrument once owned by a remarkable musician. Jack Ellory’s career ranged right across the mid-20th century music world – from playing in orchestras conducted by Toscanini and Sir Thomas Beecham to recording some of the greatest musical moments in popular culture.'
