Shanties are the work songs that were used on the square-rigged ships during the "Age of Sail." Their rhythms coordinated the efforts of many sailors hailing on the lines (ropes).
In Virginia, where there is a river by the same name, Shenandoah means “daughter of the stars,” which gives a clue to the sailor’s “loving the daughter.” The song originally referred to the love of a white man for a Native-American Chief’s daughter along the Missouri River, and can be traced back to the early 1800’s as a windlass and capstan shanty.
This is one movement from a suite of four well-known, traditional sea shanties, a choice if only a single movement is desired. See Abernathy – Sea Shanties for the complete suite at a discounted price.
(Skill level: high school and above)
 
BONUS: Free CD with purchase of complete suite. Complete recording of Sea Shanties Suite by Sego Lily Horns (as reviewed in the October 2024 The Horn Call ).