Inside the home of Royal Conservatory executive Mervon Mehta

As a young boy, Mervon Mehta had dreams of playing defence for the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens. Which helps explain why the Mason & Hamlin baby grand in his midtown Toronto home is seldom played.

Childhood music lessons were an “annoyance,” he recalls, and he ended up playing the piano rather badly. Ditto the violin that he tried later. Because he can’t play an instrument, Mehta doesn’t consider himself a musician. But he’s been immersed in music throughout his life and career, leading him to become executive director of performing arts for the Royal Conservatory , a position he’s held since 2009. As such, he’s responsible for programming Koerner Hall ’s popular series of classical, jazz, world music and pop concerts. He also oversees performances and events throughout the Conservatory