Phernambucq/Yates Duo

This program by the Phernambucq/Yates Duo (Emily Phernambucq, flute, & Augustine Yates, piano) aims to showcase music for flute and piano by leading female composers. The program features not only cornerstones of virtuosic flute repertoire, but also new discoveries in the flute literature including original works composed by renowned female and Canadian composers who have introduced new and exciting pieces to this instrumentation’s repertoire catalogue.

Since 2021, Yates and Phernambucq have collaborated after discovering a natural musical chemistry, despite coming from different musical worlds. The pair first met whilst studying music in Toronto, where Phernambucq was working towards a degree in classical Flute performance at the prestigious Glenn Gould School, and Yates a piano Degree in Jazz Performance at the respected Humber College. This combination of jazz pianist and classical flutist create a style of ensemble playing that immediately captures listeners.

Praised for performing music at the “highest level of excellence”, Yates and Phernambucq combine passion, elegance, and dazzling virtuosity. Their dynamic and energetic recital repertoire offers audiences both cornerstones and new discoveries in the flute and piano duo literature. Their duo performances have captivated audiences across Calgary.

Both Yates and Phernambucq are advocates for contemporary and Canadian music. Phernambucq performs with Ammolite Opera, a company dedicated to celebrating new works and supporting Western Canadian artists, and Yates with groups such as One Yellow Rabbit, a theatrical group performing original works and showcasing the diverse Calgary arts scene.

The pair resides in Calgary where they perform extensively across southern Alberta for concert series such as the ProArts@Noon Concert Series, Noon at Knox through the Calgary Musician Association, and Health Arts Society of Alberta Concerts in Care. They involve themselves in the community using their talents to perform for the elderly, and in community orchestras such as the Calgary Civic Symphony and Alberta Winds to connect with local artists and communities through performance.

As educators, Phernambucq and Yates are on the faculty at the Conservatory at Mount Royal University and have presented numerous recitals and masterclasses across Canada. They also work extensively with young musicians, leading band workshops throughout Calgary and Southern Alberta.