Dr Martin Kay is a saxophonist focusing on classical saxophone, improvisation, and composition. He lectures in classical saxophone at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, and for the young conservatorium program, guiding the next generation of musicians. Dr Kay’s private studio is open for any student wishing to advance their classical practice or improvisational knowledge. Underpinning all lessons is a focus on fundamentals, tonal control, and personal expression.
Dr Kay brings a wide array of experience, skills and interests to his teaching practice. After completing his Master of Music degree in classical saxophone performance, Dr Kay focused on improvisation and composition. In 2001 he studied saxophone with George Garzone, Billy Drewes and Tim Berne in New York City on a Churchill Fellowship. In 2016, he attended the Banff International program for Jazz and creative music curated by Vijay Iyer. In 2020, Dr Kay graduated with a Doctor of Musical Arts in composition from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
Dr Kay maintains a diverse freelance career, spanning multiple genres. Career highlight include playing with George Benson, Ben Folds, Tim Minchin, Manhatten transfer, Kenny Rogers, and Natalie Cole, with the Sydney Symphony, orchestra, as well as casual work with the Australian Opera and Ballet, The Malaysian Philharmonic, The Tasmanian symphony, and the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestras. Dr Kay is a key member of Continuum Saxophone Quartet, Song Fwaa, The Fantastic Terrific Munkle, and Forage. An important aspect of all of these groups is a focus on original music.
D.MUS (composition) Sydney Conservatorium of Music
M.MUS (Classical Performance) Sydney Conservatorium of Music
B.MUS (Honours) QLD Conservatorium of Music