Why do we gather for the Ellen Ambrose Tea each year?
When Ellen Ambrose arrived in Hamilton in 1875, she brought with her excellent musical training, a love of music, and a gift for teaching. She taught music at the Wesleyan Ladies’ College, later at Mrs. Thomas Chestnut’s Ladies’ School, and eventually opened her own studio.
But perhaps her greatest legacy came from understanding something very human – nervousness. When students were too shy to perform solos, she found another way to help them gain confidence: playing music together. That simple idea became the Haydn Duet Club in 1889, later known as The Duet Club.
More than a century later, her belief in learning, encouragement, and the joy of music still echoes through Hamilton.
The Ellen Ambrose Tea is a chance to celebrate the woman whose love of music, teaching, and encouragement helped shape The Duet Club of Hamilton.
Join us on Thursday, October 22 at Marshall Memorial United Church in Ancaster.
Posted October 13, 2026