Patients on Withybush Hospital’s Ward 12 are to benefit from a harmonious donation by a member of staff.

Matthew Rempes, learning modernisation officer for Hywel Dda University Health Board, needed a new home for his beloved piano after deciding to return to his native United States.

Ward 12 Sister Lisa Marshall was delighted to receive the unusual donation: “It is truly wonderful to have this piano donated to the ward for the benefit of our patients.

“My intentions are to involve our patients in music therapy sessions which are recognised to help improve health and wellbeing.

“People with dementia can feel isolated with the loss of language skills. Music therapy is a technique which can be used for people of all ages and abilities, especially when there is difficulty engaging verbally.”

Hearing music can encourage the use of knowledge and abilities stored in the long-term memory such as lyrics from familiar songs, and this form of therapy is being increasingly used alongside or instead of medication in the care of people with dementia, with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence encouraging referrals for those experiencing distress.

Matthew added: “I’m moving back to the United States shortly and as much as I would have loved to bring it with me, I needed to find a new home for my piano.

“I’ve found listening to and playing music to be incredibly therapeutic myself over the years, especially in times of stress and worry.

“I approached Sister Lisa Marshall with the hope that the piano could be used to provide some moments of harmony for patients who suffer from dementia and she jumped at the opportunity.”