Clarinet & piano highlight in Goring 

Round & About

Olivia Canolle and her son, Elisha Canolle-Forkin will star at a clarinet and piano recital in Goring on 8^th February

Music lovers in and around Goring are in for a treat this February, as St Thomas’ Church prepares to host a beautifully curated clarinet and piano recital featuring the talented mother-and-son duo Olivia Canolle and Elisha Canolle-Forkin. 
 
The performance, at 3pm on Sunday, 8th February, offers a rare opportunity to enjoy expressive French music performed by two musicians at different – yet wonderfully complementary – stages of their musical paths. 
 
The programme centres on works by Poulenc, Debussy and Saint-Saëns, composers treasured for their colour, charm and lyrical warmth. French repertoire has long held a special place within both clarinet and piano traditions, often blending elegance, playfulness and sparkling virtuosity – qualities Olivia and Elisha bring to life with insight and instinctive rapport. 
French-born Olivia is a Guildhall-trained pianist and accompanist whose career has spanned performances across the UK and Europe. Although health considerations mean she is less active professionally at present, she continues to bring her hallmark sensitivity, intelligence and artistic depth to carefully chosen musical projects – including collaborations that remain close to her heart. 
 
She is joined by her son Elisha, a gifted young clarinettist currently balancing A levels with a fast-developing musical life. While not planning a professional career in music – he hopes to study maths and computer science at university – Elisha has already achieved notable milestones, including Grade 8 distinction (2023) and finalist in the Berkshire Maestros Young Musician of the Year 2024. He also serves as principal clarinet of the Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra and is now working towards his performance diploma. 
 
Together, Olivia and Elisha create ensemble playing that feels warm, natural and full of character. Their shared musical connection adds an emotional depth that makes this recital appealing to both seasoned classical listeners and newcomers alike. 
 
The recital is free, with a retiring collection; donations are welcome towards church expenses at St Thomas’ Church. 

enjoy an hour of expressive, uplifting music from two talented local performers.