Emilio de Mercato

Emilio de Mercato is a distinguished pianist, conductor, and composer based in Edmonton, Canada. He serves as the founder and Music Director of the Alberta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) since 2015, leading over thirty concerts and notable performances such as the 2017 Tribute to Glenn Gould. Emilio holds master’s degrees in Piano and Composition from the Conservatorio di Musica “Giuseppe Verdi” in Milan, Italy, and a Konzertdiplom from the Hochschule für Musik und Theater in Bern, Switzerland. His extensive career includes collaborations with renowned institutions, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and festivals worldwide. He has been a dedicated educator, teaching at MacEwan University Conservatory of Music (2012–2018) and currently at Windermere Music Academy.

Education:

• M.Mus. (Piano), Conservatorio di Musica “Giuseppe Verdi”, Milan
• M.Mus. (Composition), Conservatorio di Musica “Giuseppe Verdi”, Milan
• PgD (Piano Performance), Accademia di Alto Perfezionamento Musicale, Seveso
• Konzertdiplom (Piano), Hochschule für Musik und Theater, Bern

Research & Performance: Emilio’s interests span classical and contemporary music, including compositions such as Summer Day and More than Suite, performed globally. He advocates for music education through initiatives like the Art of Sounds International School of Music and virtual performances during the pandemic.

Awards & Grants:

• Pintadera Award (2007), Italy
• CIFES Award (2013), Canada
• New Horizons for Seniors Program grant (2020)

Advising & Projects: Committed to mentorship, he has guided students across institutions. Current projects include Ode To Humanity, supported by the Edmonton Community Foundation, and virtual music outreach for seniors.

Labs/Teams: Leads Alberta Symphony Orchestra, collaborates with MIC Chamber Orchestra, and directs festivals like the Glenn Gould Piano Festival.