"I wanted to make it all clear so that the world is not deceived," Strnad said. "It's not me."

A number of Strnad's former bandmates had seen the picture of the Piano Man released by the Kent National Health Service, and were sure it was Strnad.

The patient, who may have amnesia, has not spoken since he was found. He communicates only through playing the piano, which he does, according to witnesses, with some skill. A telephone line set up to help identify the man has received more than 1,200 calls.