Dr Jay Byrnes is a highly regarded arts leader, event producer, musician and educator with a career spanning performance, arts administration, and cultural development. As Executive Producer at Piano Plus Australia (Sydney International Piano Competition), he has delivered Festivals, Competitions, tours and recitals throughout the organisations transition to a multifaceted, year-round arts institution.

Jay is also a key figure in the Orange Chamber Music Festival, where his work in event production, and fundraising has helped transform it into one of Australia’s leading regional music festivals. His strategic expertise has played a crucial role in growing the organisation’s reach, acquiring funding, and securing sustainability.

Jay was instrumental in developing the National Saxophone Program for El Sistema Venezuela, a globally recognized initiative that uses music education to drive social change. He has also served as a contract lecturer at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

As a saxophonist, Jay has enjoyed a distinguished career as a soloist and chamber musician. He has performed with renowned orchestras, including the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Simón Bolívar Orchestra and as a soloist with Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra, and at many of Australia’s festivals.

Outside of his professional life, Jay has a deep appreciation for food, wine, and travel. With studies in Wine Science and Business, he enjoys exploring Australia’s wine regions, discovering new culinary experiences, and immersing himself in local creative communities. His ability to merge artistic leadership with personal passion has made him a dynamic force in the cultural sector, fostering innovation, collaboration, and meaningful connections between artists and audiences.

Jay holds both a Doctor of Musical Arts and a Bachelor of Music from Sydney Conservatorium, Sydney University, as well as a Masters in Music from Escola Superior de Música e Artes do Espetáculo, Porto, Portugal.