The origins of “Shenandoah,” perhaps one of America’s most recognizable folk tunes, are not easily determined. It is generally agreed that it was composed no later than the Civil War and become very popular both on land and sea.

There are a number of distinctive versions and texts that have incorporated this beautiful melody. Some believe that the song refers to the river of the same name. Others suggest that it is of African-American origin, for it tells the tale of Sally, the daughter of the Indian Chief Shenandoah, who is courted for seven years by a white Missouri river trader. No matter what text you prefer this song will remain an American classic.

The wonderful teacher/guitarist/arranger Gary Ryan who is on the academic staff of the Royal College of Music in London, has arranged a number of traditional folks songs for the classical guitar. I recently came across his arrangement of “Shenandoah” and decided to perform it for a recent workshop of the Classical Guitar Corner Academy

For those who like the technical stuff, here is the gear involved in making this video:

Cedar Double Top by Michael Thames (2022)
Augustine Imperial Red Strings
Recorded with 2 Line Audio CM4’s
Earthworks 1022 Preamp
Audient ID44
Audio edited in Reaper
Video and Audio edited in DaVinci Resolve
Filmed with Canon 90D with Sigma 18-35 Lens