An internationally famous American pianist who bought a flat in Bath after falling in love with the city has donated a new upright piano to the New Oriel Hall at Larkhall.

Keith Snell is well known among music students in America for writing textbooks for pianists. Some have even crossed the Atlantic to be on sale in Bath.

More recently Keith, who suffers from debilitating focal dystonia in the right hand has begun making a name for himself as a concert pianist specialising in compositions for the left hand, of which there are more than any pianist could ever hope to play in one lifetime.

Keith first came to Bath a few years ago as part of his own Jane Austen pilgrimage. He is passionate about the writer.

"As soon as I came to Bath, it felt like coming home," said Keith who now has a flat overlooking Royal Crescent as well as a home back in New Mexico. He now splits his life between Santa Fe and Bath.

Some time ago he decided to buy a piano to put in his new Bath flat.

However, the one he bought turned out not to be right for his very specific requirements.

Rather than put it up for sale again he asked his cellist friend Shena Power if she knew of any organisation which might like to have the piano if it was donated to them.

Shena, who lives in Larkhall, said that the New Oriel Hall was badly in need of a better instrument and so it has now been handed over.

Keith said: "I am delighted that the piano has gone to such a good home."

Sarah Quarren-Evans at the New Oriel Hall said:

"Having a concert quality piano has made a real difference to the hall and has opened the venue up to a whole new set of users.

"Local musicians are now considering holding concerts here which would be very well received by the community.

" The piano is also being used regularly to provide live music for wedding receptions and parties.

" On behalf of the New Oriel Hall, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Keith for his very generous donation."