Two Rivers Waltz

Notes

“Two Rivers Waltz” is a contemporary masterpiece of the American folk tradition, composed by the prolific musician and dance-tune writer Larry Unger. Since its composition, it has become a “modern standard” at contra dances, festivals, and jam sessions across the country, prized for its elegant simplicity and its deeply emotional, soaring melody.

The tune is named after the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers at Harper’s Ferry, and its structure perfectly mirrors the flowing, interweaving nature of water.

• The Feel: It is a classic 3/4 waltz with a moderate, graceful tempo. It is neither too fast nor too mournful; instead, it has a “sweet” and optimistic quality that makes it a favorite for both social dancing and quiet solo performance.

• The Key: Usually played in D Major, it takes advantage of the fiddle’s (and guitar’s) most resonant strings, allowing the notes to ring out with a natural, open-air clarity.

• The Melody: The A-part is grounding and melodic, while the B-part features a signature “climb” that feels like a bird taking flight over the water. It is a tune that rewards “long bow” technique and expressive phrasing.