Nov 07, 2013


The only sound better than that of one fine flute player is the sound of more than one fine flute player playing together.

Anne Archer, Melanie Fyfe and Debbie Twiddy are three very fine flutists and recently I had a chance to hear a selection of pieces they have been practicing, songs that included "Swan Lake" and an old Hungarian folk tune known as a Czardas, as well as the Pastoral Symphony from Handel's Messiah. The three are hoping to attract other like-minded musicians in the area with the hopes of forming a local chamber ensemble. “There is so much talent in the area and we thought, why not try to get group of players together to form an ensemble? ”Anne said when I met the three musicians at Anne's home near Sharbot Lake on November 1.

The three are hoping to attract other experienced musicians including string, woodwind, brass, keyboard players and percussionists. “The shape of the ensemble will largely depend on who turns up, instrumentation and what kind of music we can scare up, and also on the players' personal musical interests. We hope to play everything from baroque to jazz," Debbie said.

The ultimate goal of the group is to perform at local concerts, public events and private functions that could include weddings, wakes, anniversaries, reunions, fundraisers and other social events.

The three women play exceptionally well together and it is no wonder, since all three at various times studied under Donelda Gartshore, principal flute player with the Kingston Symphony Orchestra and music professor at Queen's University.

Together they form the group Toute Ensemble, which was originally started by Anne and Debbie six years ago and Melanie has now joined them. Each also plays independently in various musical groups in and around the area. Melanie plays in the Mississippi Windsong. Anne and Debbie share the position of second flute at Orchestra Kingston, and they also play - Debbie formerly and Anne currently - in the Kingston Ceili Band. Anne also plays in the flute/guitar duo known as CACCIA. Anne and Melanie have performed together over the years, in the North Frontenac Little Theatre's production of "Annie" in 2012 and at the Festival of Trees in 2011. However, it wasn't until just six weeks ago that the three decided to join forces and are now rehearsing in the hopes of attracting other players to join them. They hope to rehearse regularly with the new ensemble in the Sharbot Lake area at a suitable venue. Interested musicians (including other flute players) can contact Melanie Fyfe at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

As a footnote, the group Toute Ensemble are professional musicians who cover a wide-ranging repertoire, and they are always for more performance opportunities. For more information about Toute Ensemble or to inquire about a booking contact Anne Archer at 613-279-3692.

Those who have ever had the chance to hear a polished and experienced live musical performance at a wedding, party, fundraiser or other social event, understand how beautiful live music can add a magical quality and an extra special touch of class that often makes the occasion one to remember.

Support local
independant journalism by becoming a patron of the Frontenac News.