Cambridge, Massachusetts — Tom Lehrer, a celebrated humorist and pianist known for his sharp satirical songs, has passed away at the age of 97. Lehrer died on Saturday at his home, as confirmed by his friend David Herder.

Lehrer became a household name in the 1950s and 60s, enchanting audiences with a blend of witty lyrics and exceptional piano skills. His satirical compositions tackled serious themes while retaining a light-hearted touch, echoing the exuberance of Broadway melodies.

A prodigy from a young age, Lehrer graduated from Harvard University at just 19 years old. He would go on to teach mathematics at prestigious institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where his intellectual prowess was matched only by his creative talent.

His songs often addressed pressing societal issues, such as environmental degradation and nuclear threats. Lehrer’s wit shone through in tracks like “Who’s Next,” which critiqued the arms race, and “Pollution,” where he humorously warned against the dangers of industrial waste.

Among his iconic performances, “Poisoning Pigeons in the Park” remains a fan favorite, depicting a couple’s springtime pastime with darkly comedic flair. Another notable piece, “Folksong Army,” lampooned the protests of the 1960s, showcasing Lehrer’s unique ability to blend humor with activism.

Despite a prolific career that spanned more than two decades, Lehrer stepped away from public performance in 1965, declaring that his inspiration had waned. Some speculate that he was disheartened by the political climate of his time, particularly after Henry Kissinger received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1973. However, Lehrer himself dismissed such claims in a later interview, stating that he had slowly reduced his output long before that moment.

Lehrer’s most famous adaptation involved reciting the chemical elements of the periodic table to the melody of Gilbert and Sullivan’s “A Modern Major General.” This performance garnered accolades and even inspired Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe, who expressed admiration for Lehrer’s ingenuity. Radcliffe once performed the piece on a British comedy show, which garnered the attention of music comedian Weird Al Yankovic.

Born into a secular Jewish family in New York City in 1928, Lehrer attended elite preparatory schools before entering Harvard. After graduating with a degree in mathematics, he became a beloved educator, sharing his knowledge at various esteemed colleges.

In the wake of his passing, fellow artists and fans alike have paid tribute to Lehrer’s unique blend of humor and intellect. Yankovic, who shared his respect through a heartfelt Instagram post, highlighted Lehrer’s lasting influence on comedic music, cementing Lehrer’s legacy as a towering figure in the world of satire.