A RENOWNED concert pianist, who teaches worldwide over the internet, made a rare personal appearance in North Yorkshire to teach local students.

Richard Meyrick instructs students from America to Hong Kong using Skype as well as on-line tutorials and internet videos.

But students at Northallerton College were lucky enough to get the man in person for a two hour piano master-class.

“Some of my students have to get up in the middle of the night for a class,” said Mr Meyrick.

“Other talented youngsters can secure scholarships and visit us in London.”

Northallerton College’s head of music Adrian Bramley said: “I think we have all watched his tutorials on-line, but it was even better having him at college in person to share his knowledge of music and the piano.

“It is an amazing contrast - how he can teach around the world using the latest technology, but the instrument itself has evolved little over the years.”

Student Hannah Lindup, 18, of Romanby, who is about to sit her Grade 7, added: “I have watched him on-line but it was exciting being taught by him in person. He even picked me up on the level my wrists should be when I play, which was really useful.”