Kerin Bailey was born in Kadina, a rural town 150 kilometres north west of Adelaide, Australia, in 1949. He commenced piano lessons at age seven and his interest in jazz dates from then. He began playing for local dances and concerts at eleven, a key element in developing his improvisational skills.

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In 1978 he graduated from the University of Adelaide with an Honours degree in music, majoring in Classical piano performance under renowned concert pianist and teacher Lance Dossor. Trumpet was studied as a second instrument and later flute and violin. Since then he has enjoyed a varied career in music including eight years as a music lecturer with TAFE, contracts with the University of SA, and continues to be in demand as a professional musician and teacher.

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Composition initially came in response to a practical need – recital pieces for students and collaboration with writer/lyricist Dave Brown on several critically acclaimed youth musicals. The experience of working at close hand with young aspiring musicians has enabled Bailey to refine his unusual skill of being able to compose in a way which is not only musical but also accessible to students in the early to upper intermediate grades. His classical training ensures all pieces are composed using proven classical techniques.