Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

Sir Elton John today donated, and personally delivered, one of his beloved pianos to Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 2 to be used in live performances with both established and emerging artists.

The "Elton John Radio 2 Piano" was also delivered to celebrate Elton's unique contribution to the UK radio industry.

Fresh from his stunning performance at the Radio 2 Electric Proms in October, Elton said: "I'm delighted to donate one of my treasured pianos to Radio 2, who have supported me so much over the past 40 years. The piano is, of course, my favourite instrument to play and I hope it inspires the musicians who play it."

The Yamaha DC7 piano is inscribed with Elton's signature and the network plans to use it in a unique series of live performances, on shows including Weekend Wogan, Radio 2 In Concert, Jamie Cullum's weekly jazz show and Friday Night Is Music Night. The piano will also be available to artists who perform tracks from The Great British Songbook on Simon Mayo's Drivetime show.

Lewis Carnie, Head of Programming, Radio 2 and 6 Music, comments: "It's rare that Radio 2 receives such a generous gift, and we'd like to thank Elton for offering artists who visit the station the opportunity to perform on it and, hopefully, interpret Elton's own work."

The instrument will first be used on Weekend Wogan in December.

When not in use, the piano will be on display in Radio 2's reception area in London.

Elton John will be a guest on Steve Wright 's show on Radio 2 this afternoon between 2-5pm.

SH