Montreal, June 4, 2026 — It is with profound sadness that Jeunesses Musicales Canada and the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation learned of the passing of Peter Mendell, a devoted patron of the arts, passionate musician, and longtime friend of Canada’s emerging musical talent, yesterday, June 2, 2026. For more than twenty years, Peter Mendell and his wife, Margie Mendell, made an extraordinary contribution to the development of young musicians across Canada. Their commitment led to the creation of the Peter Mendell Award in 2005, in partnership with the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation, to support the country’s most promising young string players.
Since its creation, the award has provided financial support and recognition to more than 20 young violinists, violists, cellists, and double bassists at pivotal moments in their artistic journeys. More than a generous donor, Peter Mendell was a mentor, an advocate for music, and a steadfast supporter of the next generation of artists.
A distinguished lawyer with Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP, Peter Mendell enjoyed a remarkable international career. Yet throughout his life, music remained one of his greatest passions. A dedicated cellist, he was selected to participate in the inaugural session of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada in 1960. He also sang for many years with the St. Lawrence Choir and the Montreal Symphony Orchestra Chorus, contributing to the Grammy Award-winning recording of Berlioz’s Les Troyens.
Those who had the privilege of knowing Peter will remember his generosity, intellectual curiosity, deep love of music, and sincere interest in supporting young artists. Every finalist, recipient, and jury member involved with the Peter Mendell Award witnessed the enthusiasm with which he followed the careers of emerging musicians and celebrated their achievements.
“Peter believed deeply in the transformative power of music and in the importance of supporting the next generation of artists. His legacy will live on through the many musicians whose lives and careers he helped shape over the years,” said Véronique Desjardins, Executive Director of the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation.
Jeunesses Musicales Canada and the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation extend their heartfelt condolences to his wife Margie, his family, his friends, and the entire musical community.
His legacy will continue to resonate in concert halls, conservatories, and universities across the country through the countless young artists he encouraged, supported, and inspired.
About the Peter Mendell Award
Created in 2005, the Peter Mendell Award recognizes excellence among young string musicians aged 25 and under who are studying at a Canadian university or conservatory. Each year, three finalists are selected to perform in a public final competition. Thanks to the vision and generosity of Peter and Margie Mendell, the award remains one of Canada’s most significant distinctions for emerging string players.
Funeral Arrangements and Donations
A chapel service will be held on Sunday, June 7, at 12:00 p.m.
Burial
Congregation Shaar Hashomayim Cemetery
Shiva
June 7–8, 2026
1103-1 McGill Avenue, Montreal, QC
Shiva hours: following the burial until 5:00 p.m., continuing from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., and on Monday from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in memory of Peter Mendell to the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation, helping to continue his lifelong commitment to supporting young musicians.
