The beautiful folk tune “Shenandoah” captures the sweeping, historical movement of the famous river running through Virginia. When you play this song, you shouldn’t just read notes—you should feel and hear the flow! That’s what playing with lead sheets is all about. This short lesson will show you how to use simple harmony and a classic left-hand technique to instantly transform this song from a simple melody into an expressive, emotional piece.
The secret to achieving this flowing sound lies in your left hand. In the key of C Major, we only need to utilize the primary chords (I, vi, IV, and V). In the accompanying video lesson, I demonstrate how to use these chords with a Rolling Bass Line—a gentle, continuous arpeggiated pattern that emulates the sound of the water moving. This technique moves you beyond static block chords and unlocks the ability to play any lead sheet with artistry and feeling, which is the core principle of the ChordWise Piano Method.
Ready to start? I’ve recorded a short video lesson and prepared a FREE PDF lead sheet for you to download and use right away. Click the link below to get the sheet, watch the lesson, and learn how to infuse that “rolling river” sound into your performance today!
Watch the Lesson Here: https://youtu.be/wXinHpGX_lk?si=jWFLvnW-pnhhRJ-x
>> Click here to get your FREE Shenandoah Lead Sheet Download!
https://www.jennybpeters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Shenandoah-Lead-Sheet.pdf
Click here to learn more - Short Video (20 Minutes)
The ChordWise Piano Method is the revolutionary system for adult learners who want to move Beyond the Notes. Learn the underlying structure of music—chords, patterns, and harmony—so you can confidently play by ear, improvise, and arrange any song with true freedom and artistry. Stop reading stiffly; start playing beautifully.