The Victorian Flute Guild was founded in 1969 by Australian Flautist and Teacher, Leslie Barklamb
Leslie Raymond Barklamb (1905–1993) was a pivotal figure in Australian music, renowned for his contributions as a flautist, educator, and advocate for flute playing. Born in Benalla, Victoria, Barklamb began his musical journey with piccolo lessons from his father and later studied under the esteemed John Amadio. By 1924, he was performing with Alberto Zelman’s Victorian Symphony Orchestra and later played principal flute in ensembles accompanying luminaries like Dame Nellie Melba and Anna Pavlova. His orchestral career spanned four decades, including foundational roles in the ABC’s Studio Orchestra, which evolved into the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
Beyond performance, Barklamb was instrumental in advocating for musicians’ rights, establishing the Orchestral Committee and Provident Fund to support fellow artists. In 1964, he became the first wind player appointed as a permanent staff member at the University of Melbourne’s Conservatorium, where he had been teaching since 1929. His dedication to education was recognized in 1976 with an honorary Master of Music degree.
In 1969, Barklamb founded the Victorian Flute Guild (VFG) to foster a community for flautists of all levels. The Guild’s mission encompasses promoting flute learning, facilitating collaborations among flautists, organizing events, and supporting the appreciation of flute music. His legacy endures through the annual Leslie Barklamb Scholarship, which continues to inspire and support young flautists in Australia.
For articles about the history of the VFG and its founder Leslie Barklamb, please click on the following links:
Leslie Barklamb: Celebrating the Centenary of His Birth by Mary Sheargold
Discovering the Contemporary Relevance of the Victorian Flute Guild by Alice Bennett
Memories Evoked by the VFG 50th Anniversary Gala Concert