Egyptian composer Hani Shenouda dies at 83

Renowned Egyptian composer and music producer Hani Shenouda has died at the age of 83.

Egyptian broadcaster Mahmoud Saad announced Shenouda's passing, saying: "Farewell Uncle Hani... a wonderful artist, sincere, who delighted us. Goodbye Hani Shenouda, and thank you for all you gave. My deepest condolences to his family and all who loved him."

Shenouda was one of Egypt’s most prominent composers and arrangers, credited with discovering several major Egyptian vocal talents, including Mohamed Mounir and Amr Diab. He was also a pioneer in forming Egypt’s first band, Al-Masriyyin, which produced many acclaimed works.

Born in Tanta, Gharbia Governorate in Egypt’s Nile Delta in 1943, Shenouda graduated from the Faculty of Music in 1966 and later joined the Higher Institute of Music (the Conservatory).

He leaves behind a vast musical legacy, having composed scores for more than 150 works, including the films "Al-Mashbouh," "Shams Al-Zanati," "Al-Harif," and "Ghareeb Fi Bayti."

Shenouda also composed songs such as "Bahlam Ma'ak" and "Ana Ba'ashaq Al-Bahr" for Nagat El-Saghira, "Mashya Al-Sanioura" and "Lamma Kan Al-Bahr Azraq" for Al-Masriyyin band, "Allemouni Einyki" for Mohamed Mounir, and presented Amr Diab and released for him the album "Ya Tareeq."