A beloved Play School star has died in Sydney at age 89.
Auckland-born jazz musician Judy Bailey, who worked as a pianist on the iconic children’s show, was surrounded by loved ones when she passed away in Willoughby on Friday.
Bailey grew up in Whangārei and began formal piano and music theory training at the age of 10.
By 16, she had earned a performance diploma from Trinity College London.
She later recalled being inspired for life after hearing jazz legend George Shearing on the radio.
In 1960, Bailey permanently moved to Sydney and quickly immersed herself in the city’s vibrant jazz scene.
Play School star Judy Bailey has died in Sydney at age 89
She performed at the iconic El Rocco club and worked with Australian greats including John Sangster and Graeme Lyall.
Her television credits included stints with Tommy Tycho’s Orchestra on Channel Seven, John Bamford’s Orchestra on Channel Nine and Jack Grimsley’s Orchestra on Channel Ten.
Bailey’s recording career began in the early 1960s and spanned more than half a century, producing acclaimed albums such as You & the Night & the Music, My Favourite Things and The Spritely Ones.
In 1973 she joined the founding faculty of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music’s jazz studies program, a role she held for decades.
That same year she began working on ABC Radio’s Kindergarten program, introducing music and movement to young listeners.
This passion later led to her role on Play School, where her world class piano skills became a cherished part of childhood for countless Australians.
Bailey also directed the Sydney Youth Jazz Ensemble, toured Southeast Asia with her quartet for Musica Viva, and served as musical director for the Sydney Opera House’s Bennelong jazz series.
Her remarkable contribution to Australian music was recognised with a string of honours, including the Order of Australia Medal in 2004, the APRA Jazz Composition Award and an induction into the Australian Jazz Bell Hall of Fame in 2014.
In 1960, Bailey permanently moved to Sydney and quickly immersed herself in the city’s vibrant jazz scene
Remembered for her generosity towards young musicians, Bailey once said: ‘When you’ve got something yourself that you’ve discovered, it’s natural for you to want to help others.’
Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to Bailey.
‘One of Australia’s greatest jazz ambassadors, pianists, composers and educators of all time. An inspiration to everyone who met her,’ wrote Melbourne musician Grant Windsor.
‘She was a beautiful soul and a generous, impeccable musician,’ another added.
Bailey will be remembered for her incredible legacy in both jazz and children’s entertainment.
She is survived by her children Chris and Lisette.
