Kerry Strayer was born and raised in Fairbury, Nebraska and attended Doane College in Crete, Nebraska where he completed a Bachelor of Arts degree. In 1982 he moved to Kansas City to study saxophone with Tim Timmons at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music, earning a Master of Music degree in Saxophone Performance in 1985. Since that time Kerry has been active as a saxophonist, recording artist, band leader, composer, arranger, adjudicator and private instructor. He currently leads five performing groups and teaches privately from his home. 　　 　　Kerry has released six recordings including the critically acclaimed Jeru Blue, featuring Randy Brecker, and Mentor, with Gary Foster. His latest releases are The Kerry Strayer Orchestra, Christmas in Kansas City: Music From the Plaza Lighting Ceremony and The Kerry Strayer Quartet featuring Gary Foster: Play It Where It Lays.