Pianist Panayis Lyras retired from the Michigan State University College of Music in 2019 after 17 years of dedicated teaching and artistry at the highest level. He died June 30, 2025.
The Michigan State University College of Music community mourns the passing of Professor Panayis Lyras, a revered member of the piano faculty who retired in 2019 after 17 years of extraordinary artistry and deep commitment to teaching at MSU. Lyras shaped generations of musicians with his insight, discipline, and passion for the great composers.
Born in Greece and trained at the Athens Conservatory and the Juilliard School, Lyras brought international acclaim to his role at MSU. His distinguished performance career included solo recitals in major venues such as Lincoln Center and the Kennedy Center, and orchestral appearances with leading ensembles across North America and abroad. His work in East Lansing was marked by generosity, excellence, and enduring influence.
“I was so saddened to hear of Pan Lyras’ passing,” said Deborah Moriarty, professor of piano and chair of the Keyboard Area. “He will be sorely missed by all who worked with him as an artist, teacher, mentor, friend, and colleague. His dedication to music was exceptional. He believed in the composer’s intentions, and his performances brought them to life.”
Throughout his MSU tenure, Lyras was known for his uncompromising standards and his ability to bring music to life with clarity and conviction. His students, many of whom now teach and perform around the world, carry forward his legacy of thoughtful interpretation and technical mastery.
While studying with him at MSU, Haicong Ni, associate professor of piano at Zhejiang Conservatory of Music, said Professor Lyras had a profound impact on him professionally and personally.
“Panayis Lyras was not only a world-class pianist, but also a deeply respected and beloved member of the College of Music faculty,” said Derek Kealii Polischuk, professor of piano and director of piano pedagogy. “His presence in our college brought a sense of grace and purpose to our community. As a colleague, I was continually inspired by his devotion to his students and his unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. His legacy at MSU will be felt for generations in the musicians he shaped and the lives he touched.”
For many, Lyras was more than a teacher—he was a guiding presence and a source of personal support. His mentorship extended beyond the studio, shaping the lives of students in profound ways.
“To me, he was like a second father, especially during my over 10 years of studying abroad in the United States,” said Haicong Ni, associate professor of piano at Zhejiang Conservatory of Music. “He had a profound impact on the formation of my outlook on life. His meticulous attitude towards music still inspires me to keep moving forward.”
Lyras passed away in July 2025. He is remembered not only for his remarkable career and achievements, but for the warmth, wisdom, and artistry he shared with the MSU community.
“His dedication to music naturally extended to his students, many of whom are continuing his work teaching and performing in universities and conservatories around the world,” Moriarty said. “Although he is no longer with us, he lives on through his recordings, performances, and the wisdom and care he imparted to his students.”
Full obituary for Panayis Lyras
