Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra is delighted to announce the appointment of the highly regarded arts leader, producer, and educator, Dr Jay Byrnes as Camerata’s fourth Executive Director.

Jay Byrnes joins Camerata from his current position as Executive Producer at Piano Plus Australia (Sydney International Piano Competition) and after five years as producer of the Orange Chamber Music Festival.

Camerata Chair Dr Pamela Greet said the appointment was an exciting and innovative one.

“We are very excited for the addition of Dr Jay Byrnes’ experience, talent, and creative energy to our great team,” Dr Greet said.

“With Jay Byrnes joining Brendan Joyce at the helm, you can expect only more wonderful, adventurous, and innovative music and experiences from Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra.”

Throughout his career as a highly regarded arts leader, event producer, musician and educator with a career spanning performance, arts administration, and cultural development, Jay Byrnes has delivered Festivals, Competitions, tours and recitals, and is perfectly poised to take up the helm of Executive Director alongside Artistic Director and leader Brendan Joyce as Camerata surges towards its fifth decade in 2027.

Brendan Joyce, Artistic Director and leader said that he was delighted by the appointment and looking forward to Camerata’s future with Jay Byrnes alongside him.

“I’m super happy that Jay happens to be somebody we’ve met previously through our performance with him as soloist at the Orange Chamber Music Festival in 2023,” he said.

“I saw first-hand then his passion, hard work, and wonderful manner with people.”

“He and his wife Carmen are also pioneering types which I think aligns well with Camerata as a trailblazing idea and ensemble.”

“Jay is a fine musician, an experienced producer and a talented and fearless leader and I’m optimistic about the next chapter at our beautiful company.”

Jay Byrnes equally shares this excitement and said he can’t wait to work with the orchestra and team.

“I am honoured to be appointed Executive Director of Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra,” he said.

“I look forward to working alongside Brendan Joyce, our Artistic Director, and the talented orchestra and team with continued ambition to empower artists, inspire audiences, and enrich communities through music.”

Read Jay’s full bio here.

For further media information please contact Camerata.