22nd August 2012

BRIDPORT: Family re-unites to launch debut albums in Bridport’s Electric Palace

By Chris Denne

A PIANIST from Bridport teamed up with her Canadian cousin to showcase music from their debut albums at one of the town’s top venues.

Elizabeth Hornby, known by the many children she has taught piano as ‘Busy Miss Lizzie’, performed pieces from her debut album Lady of Lewesdon Hill at Bridport’s the Electric Palace.

Miss Hornby composed the relaxing, mesmeric piano sonatas herself, many of which are inspired by the bluebell woodland near Beaminster which features in the album title.

She said: “I recorded a meditation video in the bluebells there and have been in love with the place ever since.

“But the music is inspired not just by Lewesdon Hill – each piece reflects a different West Dorest landscape.”

The 29-year-old added: “I’m very excited to share my music and promote the wonderful landscapes of Dorset at the same time.”

Other influences include the music of maverick French composer Erik Satie.

The rolling, evolving sonatas, which Miss Hornby reworks with every semi-improvisational performance, were greatly enjoyed by an appreciative audience of over 100 people.

Miss Hornby’s cousin Joey Clarkson hails from Vancouver Island, off the west coast of British Columbia.

The Canadian sang a selection of songs from her debut album “Joey”.

The upbeat, energetic songs chart the highs and lows of romantic love and have an honesty reminiscent of a young Suzanne Vega.

The 22-year-old was accompanied on vocals by high-school friend Breanne Larson. Together they are making a documentary video of their adventures on tour in the UK.

Miss Clarkson first met her piano-playing cousin when she was a teenager and they have remained close ever since.

But it is not just the family connection that keeps the Canadian singer coming back to the UK.

She said: “I came here not expecting to fall in love with the country but I did. I absolutely love it here. The people, the scenery, everything… it’s just great.”

Lady of Lewesdon Hill by Elizabeth Hornby and Joey by Joey Clarkson are available on iTunes and Spotify.

PICTURE: Joey Clarkson, Elizabeth Hornby and Breanne Larson at the Electric Palace