HOW TUNES WAS BORN

Edward Palmer was born on Beaver Island in 1946, growing up in a time when life on the island wasn’t always easy. Around the age of 9, his path crossed with Mrs. O’Brien, a woman whose kindness would change his life forever. In exchange for helping keep her firewood stocked, Edward found more than just a warm place to sleep — Mrs. O’Brien, knowing his family’s deep musical roots, introduced him to the piano.

At first, Mrs. O’Brien’s lessons leaned toward classical training, but Edward’s musical spirit was anything but traditional. His playing quickly transformed into a one-of-a-kind mix of honky-tonk, ragtime, and Irish influences — a sound that captured the very essence of Beaver Island’s musical soul.

Though Edward never fully learned to read sheet music, his raw talent and ear for melody carried him through. Before long, he picked up guitar and harmonica, adding his own twist to every song he touched. By the age of 14, Edward was performing alongside the island’s elder musicians, including his own mother, Lorraine Palmer, and his future father-in-law, Jewell Gillespie, playing for crowds at Holy Cross Hall and countless island gatherings.

Edward’s love for music never faded. Over the years, his songs brought joy to five generations of Beaver Island families and visitors. But Edward didn’t just play music — he built connections through it, weaving together the community with every note. A natural mentor, he was always eager to pass his knowledge along to anyone willing to learn, especially children and grandchildren who gathered around him to absorb lessons in guitar, piano, harmonica, and singing.

Edward also understood the importance of preserving Beaver Island’s unique musical history. Just before his passing in 2021, he made one final request to his children: “Keep the music going.” In 2023, TUNES Music Makers was born, a living promise to honor that request.

Founded by Edward’s family, TUNES exists to ensure that music remains a vital part of Beaver Island’s identity. Through accessible music education for all island residents, the program not only keeps Edward’s tunes alive but helps preserve the rich cultural history of Beaver Island for generations to come.