Mervon Mehta, Executive Director of Performing Arts at The Royal Conservatory (RCM), has been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in a special ceremony that took place in the Senate of Canada in Ottawa on April 3, 2025.
The award is given in recognition of significant contributions to Canada’s cultural landscape, and is administered by Chancellery of Honours at Rideau Hall. The King Charles III Medal has been given to noteworthy Canadians in several categories, including culture and the arts.
Mehta was nominated by Senator Mohammad Al-Zaiback, and Peter Donolo, former Communications Director under Prime Minister Jean Chrétien.
“It is a profound honour to receive this medal,” said Mehta in a statement. “I have been privileged to spend my career helping to bring artists and audiences together to create unforgettable experiences. Canada’s extraordinary cultural diversity and creative spirit have always inspired me—and it is a joy to share that on stage every season. Working alongside the team at the RCM, we have been able to introduce hundreds of emerging Canadian and international artists to audiences eager to hear new voices.”
Mervon Mehta
Mervon Mehta was born in Vienna and grew up in Montréal as the sone of singer Carmen Mehta and then Montréal Symphony Orchestra conductor Zubin Mehta. He began his career in the arts as an actor, studying with the late Sanford Meisner. He appeared in more than 100 theatrical productions, including two seasons at the Stratford Theatre Festival.
He was appointed as the first ever Executive Director, Performing Arts for The Royal Conservatory in 2009, on the opening of Koerner Hall.
During his time in that role, he has programmed seasons that have seen nearly 1,400 concerts and events take place at Koerner Hall. The performers represent a celebration of Canadian and global talent in all its diversity, featuring artists from 75 countries and dozens of First Nations. Koerner Hall has become a destination for the highest calibre of international artists of all genres.
Other highlights of his tenure include:
- Mehta is the founder of KUNÉ: Canada’s Global Orchestra, an ensemble launched in 2017 made up of newcomers to Canada;
- He launched the 21C Festival of contemporary music in May 2014, which has since become a signature event in the city’s classical music calendar.
Among his many roles, Mervon is rooted in the community, and serves as co-chair of the International Society of Performing Arts Congress, juror for the JUNO Awards, grant adjudicator for the Ontario Arts Council and Toronto Arts Council, board member of Culture Days, and advisor to the National Arts Centre’s National Creation Fund.
“From the moment Koerner Hall opened its doors in 2009, Mervon has shaped it into one of the most respected and diverse performance venues in North America,” said Alexander Brose, President & CEO of The Royal Conservatory. “This national honour is a fitting tribute to his remarkable vision, artistry, and unwavering dedication to enriching Canada’s cultural life.”
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