Don Kay was born and educated in Tasmania before completing his music degree at the University of Melbourne. During his time in London (1959 - 64) he studied composition privately with Malcolm Williamson. Since returning to Hobart he has composed much music for professional individuals, ensembles, young performers, amateur groups, theatre, concert and public occasions.

Over time his music has increasingly resulted from response to the Tasmanian landscape, ecology and history, His compositions include two one act operas, three concertos, a symphony, vocal, choral, chamber, film and theatre music. In 1991 he was appointed a Member of the General Division of the Order of Australia for his service to the Arts, particularly music composition.