Bluegrass Family Band Performs 'Shenandoah' - More Music

The Peterson’s bluegrass family band performs a stunning version of ‘Shenandoah.’ 

These Missouri natives will stun you with their talent. Folk songs are perhaps one of the most recognizable music pieces played at festivals. gatherings, and concerts. The Petersen family are no strangers to folk music. 

Surrounded by the Ozark mountains, this sibling group learns about the deep American history the Missouri River holds. The beloved song ‘Shenandoah’ became a popular song among Canadian and American fur traders traveling down the Missouri River in canoes. 

By the mid-1800s, various versions of the song had been adopted by travelers worldwide. The meaning of Shenandoah means “Beautiful Daughter of the Stars,” and its legendary story describes Shenonadoah as a beautiful like found in the mountains of Virginia. But others believe the song Shenandoah was about a traveler who fell in love with a Native American daughter of a chief. Regardless of its historical roots, it has become a beloved Bluegrass classic. 

In a clip posted on YouTube showcases the rich and wide range of octaves among the family including the various types of instruments they play. Surrounded by the lush forest of the Ozarks, the song begins with the violin, followed by the bass, banjo, and guitar before Katie’s enchanting voice as Ellen and Julianne provide a beautiful harmony. 

Oh Shenandoah, I long to see you Look away rollin' river 
Oh Shenandoah, I long to hear you Look away,
I'm bound away 
Across the wide Missouri

The Petersen group is made up of Katie, Ellen, Matt, and Julianne, their mother Karen, and family friend Emmett Franz. They were first introduced to Bluegrass music at a festival in 2003. This encounter captured their hearts and they fell in love with the sound, the history, and what Bluegrass music is all about. 

The Petersens family had played in front of live audiences for the last decade before branching out with YouTube. They are blessed to share their lives and what happens behind the scenes in their personal lives. The family loves to share their stories and music with fans. They are incredibly blessed and humbled to share their passion and talent. 

We hope you enjoy this beautiful rendition of Shenandoah as much as the Petersens enjoyed performing. God bless them for sharing their musical gifts with the world.