Shenandoah

Shenandoah is one of the most recognizable American folk songs, dating from the early-to-mid 19th century. Although the exact origin is unclear, the tune likely began with the French-Canadian fur traders traveling down the Missouri River, with the earliest recorded lyrics telling the story of one of those voyagers who was in love with the daughter of the Native American chief Skenandoa. Over the years, other lyrics emerged, linking the tune to riverboat men, cavalrymen, and Civil War soldiers from both sides. In 2015, new lyrics referencing the Shenandoah River Valley were written and it was adopted as the official state song of Virginia. This arrangement features handbells, handchimes, and optional flute. With minimal techniques, ringers can focus on musicality and interpretation, bringing out the melody and allowing the accompaniment to flow gently underneath. The flute part is included, but is not reproducible; please purchase an extra copy for your flutist.