Mario Bernardi (born 1930, Kirkland Lake, Ontario) is a Canadian conductor and pianist.

Early years

When he family moved to Italy when he was young, Bernardi studied at Italy's Venice Conservatory . After graduating in 1945, his family returned back to Canada where he finished his studies at the Royal Conservatory in Toronto. He then was a concert pianist.

In 1957, he conducted the Canadian Opera Company, and in 1963 was Coach and Assistant Conductor at the Sadler’s Wells Opera Company (now the English National Opera). From 1966 to 1968 he was co-Music Director of the company.

Conducting

In 1968 he became the founding conductor of the National Arts Centre Orchestra in Ottawa and also became the Music Director in 1971. He then led the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra from 1984 until 1992. Since 1983 he has been the Principal Conductor of the CBC Radio Orchestra.

Honours

• He has honorary degrees from the University of British Columbia, University of Calgary, University of Windsor, University of Ottawa, Carleton University, Lakehead University and Laurentian University.
• 1972 - he was made a Companion of the Order of Canada.
• 2001 - he received the Governor General's Performing Arts Award.