The flute played on The Beatles The Fool On The Hill will be sold on June 12 in Wiltshire.
Jack Ellory played the now familar melodies on the song from the band’s 1967 Magical Mystery Tour film and album project.
He was also a notable session player operating for decades in pop, classical, TV and movie soundtrack studios.
Ellory’s flute can be heard in James Bond movies, the Pink Panther series, and in Oliver!
The instrument is expected to make £20,000 when it is sold at Gardiner Houlgate next month. Jack’s son Brian inherited the flute, which he has restored, and has decided to sell it after learning he has not inherited his dad’s musical aptitude.
Brian Ellory told the BBC: “I’m the last member of our family to know the story of the flute and my father’s career so it’s best I sell it rather than my children when I’m gone.”
Jamie South, from Gardiner Houlgate, said: “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 Ellory flute will auction on June 9. Guitars are by far the most popular musical instruments linked to modern stars, so this unusual sale will set a benchmark for an uncommon star link.
