$5,000 was awarded to The Palmer Arts Council for the restoration of the Bailey Piano. The 1949 Baldwin D concert grand piano has a rich history in Palmer and is believed to be the first grand piano ever in the Mat-Su Borough. It originally traveled from the Baldwin factory in Ohio as a gift for Dr. Clarence Bailey’s fiance. When the Baileys left Alaska in the 60s, the piano was given to The Palmer Independent School District.
The piano has done some traveling between school buildings, churches, and the fairgrounds. It has been used for numerous performances throughout the years from community choir performances to Miss Alaska pageants. It was even played by Three Dog Night, Johnny Rivers, and Ronnie Milsap during performances at the Alaska State Fair. The piano needs significant restoration work due to the years spent in non-climate-controlled spaces. The Palmer Arts Council will use grant funds from PCF along with other money raised to begin the restoration process. Once restored, the piano will be housed at the Palmer Senior Center, where it can be enjoyed by a wide range of community members during special events and performances.