Quick Facts
Biography
Zarin Mehta (born October 28, 1938 in Bombay) is the former president and executive director of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra (2000-2012).
Pre-music career
Mehta is a chartered accountant. During his career at the public accounting firm Coopers & Lybrand (1962-1981) in Montreal, he rose to partner. He was an accountant at Frederic B. Smart & Co., in London (1957-1962).
Montreal Symphony Orchestra (1981-1990)
Mehta was managing director of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra from 1981-1990.
Ravinia Festival (1990-2000)
Mehta was named executive director of the Ravinia Festival in 1990 and later became president and CEO. During his 10-year tenure he pioneered the jazz festival within Ravinia and a world music series.
New York Philharmonic (2000-2012)
Mehta was appointed New York Philharmonic executive director in September 2000 and received the additional role of president in June 2004. He was instrumental in securing the logistics for the 2008 New York Philharmonic visit to North Korea.
On September 27, 2010 Mehta announced he would step down as president and chief executive of the New York Philharmonic when his contract expires after the 2011-2012 season, after having spent 12 years at the Philharmonic.
Personal
He is the brother of Zubin Mehta and son of the late Mehli Mehta, founder of the Bombay Symphony Orchestra. He is married to Canadian soprano Carmen Lasky, who was previously married to his brother Zubin.