Classical music has been the centre of Emilio De Mercato’s world since the age of five when his mother’s influence brought him to the piano. Later, he earned his master’s degree in piano and composition, moved from his homeland of Italy, and settled into the music sphere in Edmonton immersing himself in composing, performing, and teaching. Not only does De Mercato think in terms of music, he seeks to spread the love of it to those around him.
Mercato has performed near and far, from the Francis Winspear Centre for Music and the Freemasons’ Hall of Edmonton Auditorium, to Carnegie Hall in New York and the Sala Verdi in Milan. .
Throughout his career De Mercato has striven to encourage and inspire up-and-coming generations of musicians. In 2015, he founded the Alberta Symphony Orchestra Society, a cornerstone of classical music that creates opportunities for local musicians.
His drive to foster the love of music in others and his dedication to human authenticity has made Emilio De Mercato a beloved member of the Edmonton Arts community. In an age when the demand for quick and easy content is the norm, De Mercato sticks to his training as one man and one piano, filling music halls with all the emotion and talent that his capable two hands can make.
