Clue: George Orwell and Colette finally breaking even, which produces a high note (9)
Answer: FLAGEOLET
Explanation: Definition: which produces a high note
An envelope ('breaking') of GEO. ('George') plus LE ('Orwel**L** and Colett**E** finally') in FLAT ('even'). A FLAGEOLET here is not a bean, but a small high-pitched flute, so the "definition" is allusive, or requires a preface "something which produces …" or the like, to make a true definition.