The Alexandrian accordionist Saleh Abdelaziz, known by Saleh El-Artist, died Monday after a struggle with illness.

The funeral was held in Ahl El-Sunna Mosque in Maadi, and the wake will be held tonight at El-Hegaz Mosque in Talibiya.

Saleh El-Artist was considered one of the best accordionist players Egypt and in the Arab world.

His repertoire includes countless performances over nearly 20 years of musical experience. He performed alongside Fathy Salama, participating in his Grammy award-winning album Egypt (2004), as well as being an essential member of Salama's ensemble Sharkiat.

Sharkiat is an oriental Jazz band that has been active since it was founded by Salama in 1989.

On 3 July Saleh’s brother Sokkar El-Artist posted a photo on his Facebook page asking fans to pray for his brother who was ill, without specifying the type of illness. Three weeks later he posted the news of Saleh's death.

People have been mourning Saleh’s loss on Facebook, including Saleh and Sokkar's third brother, the accordionist Said El-Artist, who was celebrating getting his star added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Hollywood Avenue in Los Angeles earlier this week.

Salama has posted calling Saleh El-Artist “a great accordion player, member of Sharkiat band and friend.”

Norwegian composer and saxophonist Trygve Seim said: It’s hard to believe that this wonderful person and absolutely amazing musician passed away. RIP dear Saleh El- Artist. I will always be incredibly grateful for all the many concerts I got to do with you, and for everything you taught me about Arabic music."

For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture