Former Jethro Tull Member Dee Palmer Passes Away

Dee Palmer, a former member and arranger for Jethro Tull, died at home in Shropshire, according to a statement released by Ian Anderson on June 13, 2026. Palmer, who was supported by family at the bedside, had been unwell for several years. The musician served as a conductor, arranger, and keyboardist for the band over several decades.

Why was Dee Palmer significant to Jethro Tull?

Palmer’s contributions began in 1968 as David Palmer, when he wrote and conducted brass section parts for the track “Move On Alone” on the album This Was. In November 1968, Palmer arranged a string quartet for “A Christmas Song,” released as the B-side of the “Love Story” single, according to Anderson.

Palmer later served as an arranger and conductor for the albums Aqualung, WarChild, Minstrel In The Gallery, and Too Old To Rock And Roll…. From 1976 until 1980, Palmer joined the band as a second keyboard player, specifically covering string parts on electronic keyboards.

Did You Know? Dee Palmer’s early work with Jethro Tull dates back to 1968, starting with brass arrangements for the album This Was.

What other professional work did Dee Palmer complete?

Palmer’s solo career focused on orchestral versions of classic rock albums by Queen, Pink Floyd, Yes, and Genesis. Palmer also worked on the Tull album A Classic Case with the London Symphony Orchestra, a project that included instrumental contributions from Tull members.

In 2018, Palmer released the album Through Darkened Glass, which featured reworked song arrangement ideas from sessions held in the 1970s. More recently, Palmer toured the USA and Latin America as part of The Martin Barre Band.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that Palmer’s ability to bridge the gap between traditional orchestral arrangements and rock instrumentation provided a sonic foundation for the progressive era of the 1970s, influencing how string sections were integrated into the genre.

What happens next with Palmer’s unfinished work?

The status of a planned orchestral recording of the ballet The Water’s Edge is now uncertain. The score was written in 1979 by Palmer, Martin Barre, and Ian Anderson for the Scottish Ballet.

Dee Palmer & Stewart Wood – Pibroch (Cap in Hand)/Acres Wild (Jethro Tull covers)

Because Palmer was planning to record the score earlier this year, the project may be delayed or require new leadership to complete. It is possible that existing arrangements could be used, though Anderson had previously agreed to play flute on the new recording.

What were the personal milestones in Dee Palmer’s life?

Following the death of a spouse, Maggie, Palmer underwent psychological and medical consultations and surgery in 2004 to transition to Dee. Palmer is survived by four children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where did Dee Palmer pass away?
Dee Palmer died at home in Shropshire.

When was Dee Palmer a member of Jethro Tull?
Palmer served as the band’s second keyboard player from 1976 until 1980.

Which orchestral versions did Dee Palmer record?
Palmer recorded orchestral versions of albums by Genesis, Yes, Pink Floyd, and Queen.

How do you remember the orchestral contributions of Dee Palmer to the rock genre?