Renowned Lebanese pianist put to rest

Lebanese pianist Walid Akl, who was known for recording the entire piano repertoire of Haydn, was laid to rest Sunday in his hometown of Bikfaya, east of Beirut, more than a week after he died in Paris following heart surgery. His death came as a shock to his many admirers, friends and family. He was 52.

Akl also recorded the entire piano works of the 19th century Russian composer Borodin. He made recordings of Beethoven and Liszt in addition to the set of 30 records of Haydn's complete piano works.

During more than 30 years as a concert pianist, Akl toured the world, playing concerts in France, Germany, Mexico, England, Belgium, Switzerland, Spain and Canada, among others.

Akl was born in Bikfaya, Lebanon on July 13, 1945.

While still a teenager he traveled to France, where he studied at the Conservatoire and the Ecole Normale de Musique. His teachers included Yvonne Lefebure, Germaine Mounier and Jacques Fevrier.

Although he lived in Paris, Akl returned home for recitals through the years of war.

Akl was scheduled to give two concerts north of Beirut on September 19 and 20. But the performances were canceled, initially for health tests. Akl underwent heart surgery on September 13 but his health took a turn for the worse. He died Sept. 26.

Akl is survived by his wife of a few months, Dina.