In a sense, aren’t we all improvisers? One’s whole life is an improvisation really, when you think about it .

Creative Australia honours the life and legacy of Dr Judy Bailey OAM, a pioneering force in Australian jazz, a brilliant composer and pianist, and a passionate educator whose influence shaped generations of musicians. 

Born in New Zealand and arriving in Sydney in the early 1960s, Judy quickly became a central figure in Australia’s vibrant jazz scene. Her performances at the legendary El Rocco Jazz Cellar alongside artists such as John Sangster, Don Burrows and Graeme Lyall marked the beginning of a remarkable career defined by fearless creativity and musical excellence. 

Judy’s talent and versatility saw her become a sought-after pianist and arranger, working across major television networks with orchestras led by Tommy Tycho (Channel 7), Don Burrows (ABC), John Bamford (Channel 9) and Jack Grimsley (Channel 10). She was the resident pianist for ABC Radio’s Kindergarten program and introduced innovative music and movement programs for children at Currambena and Lane Cove West Primary Schools. 

Her work as a composer spanned film, television and children’s programming, and her recordings as a bandleader, including the acclaimed My Favourite Things and Colours, showcased her distinctive voice in jazz fusion. Her music reached global audiences, with a track from Colours sampled by hip hop artist Rick Ross decades later. 

Judy’s contributions to music education were profound. As a founding faculty member of the Tertiary Jazz Studies Program at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, she mentored countless students and continued lecturing well into her later years. She toured internationally with Musica Viva, organised performances and lectures at the Sydney Opera House, and served as Musical Director for the Bennelong series and the Sydney Youth Jazz Ensemble Association. Her student-run big band, Judy Bailey’s Jazz Connection, provided vital performance opportunities for emerging artists and remains a testament to her commitment to nurturing talent. 

Judy had a long association with Creative Australia (formerly the Australia Council for the Arts), including funding support for a range of compositions and mentorships dating back to 1979. She served on the Music Board from 1981 to 1985, contributing to the development of national music policy and support for artists. Over the years, many grant applicants referenced their experiences working with Judy in their submissions. She was, without question, a benchmark for excellence.

In 2022, she was honoured with the prestigious Australia Council Don Banks Music Award, recognising her lifetime of achievement and her pioneering role for women in jazz. 

Creative Australia extends its deepest condolences to Judy’s family, friends, colleagues and students. We celebrate her extraordinary life and the enduring impact she leaves on Australian music.  

Adrian Collette, CEO of Creative Australia and Chair of the Music Australia Council shares: 
 "Judy Bailey was a visionary artist whose generosity and commitment to jazz music left an indelible mark on Australian culture. Her legacy as a trailblazing artist and educator will continue to resonate through the music and lives of those she inspired. We are deeply grateful for her life and work." 

Vale  
Dr Judy Bailey OAM 
03.10.1935 – 08.08.2025