Don Kay

Don Kay 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.

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.

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.

Don Kay is featured on the following titles

Music of Don Kay

Works for piano, flute, and cello. Of the six works, four have been composed for the performers on this CD, including the three piano sonatas, which receive their premiere performances.

Composer

Compositions by Don Kay also appear on

Move 50

A special CD to celebrate Move Records’ 50th year. Twenty-four Australian composers were invited to create a new short work for this special commemorative disc.

Composer

Dancing to the Tremors of Time

A collection of music reflecting the art of Mona – eclectic, surreal and powerful. Michael Kieran Harvey performs new works by seven Australian composers.

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There is an Island

Australian history in a tuneful, dramatic cantata by Don Kay, depicting the short history of the demise of the full-blood Tasmanian Aboriginal race and the early convict days. Includes The Song of the Maypole.

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The Sound of Rosny

The Australian Rosny Childrens Choir, with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra presents songs from other lands, Chinese songs, Australian songs, as well as cantatas from Vaughan Williams and Don Kay.

Composer