Homeless pianist raises money for charities

A man in a black hooded coat plays the piano in a church.
Image caption,

Rhys Wynne-Jones went viral on social media for his skills playing piano

  • Published

A homeless man has said he has raised more than £10,000 for homeless charities after holding a series of piano concerts in Cornish churches.

Earlier this year a video of Rhys Wynne-Jones playing piano in a church in Penzance went viral on social media.

The 32-year-old has since embarked on a series of concerts across the county, with proceeds going to Mandown Cornwall, Centre Point and Nightchurch Penzance.

Mr Wynne-Jones said it was "heartwarming" to have made a difference, with the money used to buy sleeping bags and tents for homeless people.

Image source, Rhys Wynne-Jones
Image caption,

Rhys Wynne-Jones embarked on a series of concerts across Cornwall

Mr Wynne-Jones has been homeless since January and is now in supported accommodation until he finds a permanent home.

He said his concerts had been attended by hundreds but he "didn't expect to get standing ovations".

"I've met so many beautiful people during my whole tour of Cornwall and they helped me put on a show," he said.

He said one of his biggest surprises was a personal message from Queen drummer Roger Taylor, who grew up in Truro.

"After hearing your dazzling rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody I would like to wish you all the best for your concerts," Taylor said in a message read out in Truro Cathedral.

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