Palmer Alaska Buzz announces Palmer’s first public piano

Last week Palmer’s very first public piano was installed next to the Palmer Museum. This is a big deal for many in our little mountain town because the concept of a Palmer public piano has been discussed and dismissed (many times over) by various groups. But suddenly a lovely oak piano appeared on Thursday. Thanks to Sam Dinges, Director of the Museum, the old piano was given a home. And on Friday it was tuned by a wonderful local piano tuner and by Friday afternoon, Palmer people were stepping up to start playing it.

Why is a Palmer Street Piano Wonderful?—Some will ask this question. The answers are many. There is a curious joy that comes with listening to live piano playing in an unfamiliar landscape. There is also the curious joy that piano players will feel of making unexpected music for strangers. “A public piano changes the dynamics of the environment it’s in. People stop and smile. They stop to play it, or they stop to listen. They stop to talk. They speak with a light in their eye and a smile in their heart. People linger, and encourage, and applaud. It’s a “smile generator.” When there’s a public piano in a neighborhood, everyone knows about it, and most can tell you a story about how it brought them joy. Sometimes it’s the first opportunity a child has ever had to touch real musical instrument.” Research goes on to include this quote from Crime Prevention Specialist, Steve Woolrich, who wrote, “… I am very keen on street pianos because they are just the sort of positive influence that many streets need. When people come together in an upbeat and open way, they realize that they have much in common. We also learn that the best streets in our cities are the one where people care about what goes on there — where people take a shared ownership and responsibility. Street pianos help create that vibe.”

Is a Palmer Public Piano Necessary?—There are thousands of street pianos all around the world. Some are in parks or markets. Some are in airports or bus stations.

Now we have one in Palmer. Many would argue that Palmer already has an engaged and loving community that easily (and proudly) claims ownership of their precious public landscape. Probably—a street piano isn’t necessary to enhance care and positivity.

But then, neither are swing sets. Or good sidewalks. Or food gardens in town. Or a well maintained library or cemetary. Or hanging baskets. Or little volunteer libraries in neighborhoods. Or holiday decorations. None of these sweet things are absolutely necessary.

But all of these little things combine deliciously into the voluntary, full loving flavor of Palmer, Alaska. So let’s support the joy.

Naming of the Palmer Street Piano—A variety of names have been suggested. Here is the list so far: Ivory, Guthrie, Count Basie, Pearl, Bella, Melody, Piano Man, Tommy Waiters, Mattie Sue, Happy Keys, Walter, George Palmer, Rosie, Charlie, Soul Mate, Elton, Moosey Tune, Mozart, Elmo, Oakie, Rinky Tink, Mr. White Keyes, The Grand Palmer, and (the very popular name) Moosic! There is an open and informal suggestion thread for names on the Palmer Alaska Buzz page, specific to name nominations. Concerns about the safety and weatherproofing of the piano are ongoing and volunteers are quickly working out the kinks. The Palmer Public Piano is open for you to play everyday of the week from 9 to 6pm. There might be special concerts or opportunities to play as things are sorted out. Until then enjoy the Palmer Street Piano…and give it a tickle.

Stay Safe Palmer Peeps! Inhale the Lilacs and Celebrate Solstice!

Barbara Hunt is both Palmer writer and artist. She works hard to keep the robust pulse of Palmer, Alaska. She shares the good stuff on the weekly Palmer Alaska Buzz in the Mat Su Valley Frontiersman and daily on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Facebook Group. Email bhunt@mtaonline.net or text at 907.315.3222