The flute that accompanied The Beatles on their 1967 track “The Fool On The Hill” and played the “Nutcracker Suite” for the classic 1970s Cadbury’s “fruit and nutcase” television commercials is set to be sold at auction. This unique instrument, owned by renowned British flautist Jack Ellory until his passing in 2009, is expected to attract significant interest from collectors and music enthusiasts alike.
Jack Ellory was a highly sought-after session musician, known for his contributions to a wide range of classical and popular recordings during the post-war decades. His work extended beyond studio sessions, as he also performed on film soundtracks and live performances. The flute has a rich history, featuring on soundtracks for several iconic films, including those from the Sean Connery era of James Bond, the Pink Panther series, episodes of the 1960s television show The Avengers, and the film musical Oliver!
Ellory served as the principal flute player for notable composers such as Henry Mancini, John Barry, Ron Goodwin, and even George Martin, The Beatles’ producer. In 1967, George Martin commissioned Ellory to play the flute for Paul McCartney’s composition “The Fool On The Hill,” which appeared on The Beatles’ chart-topping Magical Mystery Tour project. The flute also made an appearance in various period advertisements, most notably the Cadbury’s “fruit and nutcase” campaign, where it played an excerpt from the “Nutcracker Suite” while humorist Frank Muir provided vocals.
Ellory’s career spanned a wide array of projects, including the 1960 top-five hit “Goodness Gracious Me,” performed by comedian Peter Sellers. His son, Brian Ellory, inherited the flute in 2009 but found it in poor condition, held together by elastic bands. He had the instrument completely overhauled, though he admitted he lacked the talent to play it effectively. Brian expressed his belief that he is the last member of the family to know the full story of the flute and his father’s career, making it best to sell it rather than pass it on to his children.
Jamie South, an auctioneer from Gardiner Houlgate, highlighted the significance of the instrument, stating, “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, including Sinatra and Bing Crosby.”
The flute was crafted by Arthur Cooper, who is regarded as one of the most famous British flute makers of the 20th century. It will be up for sale on 12 June in Wiltshire, offering a rare opportunity for collectors and musicians to own a piece of music history.
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