Georges Barrere

Georges Barrère (1876-1944) was a French flutist who began on tin whistle as a young boy, and later moved to flute when he was big enough to fit the instrument. He was recommended for lessons in 1888 by Monsieur Chouet, the principal and band leader of Barrère's school.

He was accepted at the Paris Conservatoire at the age of fourteen and began taking lessons with Henry Altès. Unders Altès' instruction, Barrère grew slowly, with a less than glowing reputation as a performer. However, in 1893, Altès was replaced by Claude-Paul Taffanel and signaled a huge turning point in Barrère's carrer. Under Taffanel's instruction, Barrère grew quickly. By teaching his students the ability to analyze any piece they were playing, thus discovering its subtle nuances, Taffanel's students flourished. Barrère's quick improvement was obvious to all the professors at the conservatory. He won first prize in the concours (a competative exam) in 1895.

Barrère began doing freelance work for the Société Nationale de Musique under which Claude Debussy composed the now famous Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune (Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun). Barrère was the lucky flutist to debut this piece in 1894.

After he graduated from the conservatory, Barrère became a founding member of the Société moderne d'instruments à vent (Modern Society for Modern Wind Instruments). This organization gave many concerts in Paris and gave Barrère a large recognition in France.

In 1879, Barrère was appointed flautist in the Concerts Colonne, a major Parisian orchestra, which toured throughout Europe with a very tough tour schedule.

In 1905, Barrère moved to New York and was asked to play for the New York Symphony Orchestra, which later merged with the New York Philharmonic. He held this position for the rest of his life.

Works that were written for Barrère include: Charles Tomlinson Griffes' “Poem for Flute and Orchestra” and “Density 21.5” by Edgar Varese. 21.5 g/cm cubed is the density of platinum; Barrère was premiering his platinum flute with this piece.