Peter Yarrow, a name synonymous with the iconic folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, passed away on January 7th in Manhattan at the age of 86. His departure marks the end of an era for folk music, leaving behind a rich tapestry of melodies and messages that resonated through generations. Yarrow’s journey, significantly influenced by his time at Cornell University, propelled him to the forefront of the 1960s folk revival and cemented his place as a musical legend.
From Cornell Inspiration to Folk Icon
Yarrow’s formative years at Cornell University played a crucial role in shaping his musical trajectory. Majoring in psychology within the College of Arts and Sciences, he discovered an unexpected muse in the “American Folk Literature” course, affectionately known as “Romp-n-Stomp.” Taught by folklorist Professor Harold Thompson, this class immersed Yarrow in the heart of American folk traditions. Serving as a student instructor for Romp-n-Stomp, he was tasked with leading fellow students in songs that spanned the spectrum of folk themes, from somber murder ballads to poignant Dust Bowl narratives and the powerful spirituals of enslaved peoples. This experience was transformative, bridging academic study with practical musical engagement.
Yarrow himself acknowledged the profound connection between his Cornell experience and his later musical career. He eloquently stated that the essence of Peter, Paul and Mary’s music, especially their powerful performances at the 1963 March on Washington singing anthems like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “If I Had a Hammer,” was a direct “extrapolation from Romp-n-Stomp.” This highlights how deeply rooted his artistic and activist spirit was in the folk traditions he explored at Cornell. The university environment not only provided him with academic knowledge but also ignited his passion for folk music and its potential as a vehicle for social commentary.
The Rise of Peter, Paul and Mary
Following his graduation from Cornell, Yarrow returned to New York City, immersing himself in the burgeoning folk scene of Greenwich Village. This pivotal move led to a fateful connection with Albert Grossman, a key figure in the Newport Folk Festival. Grossman envisioned a trio and brought Yarrow together with Mary Travers and Noel Paul Stookey. In 1961, Peter, Paul and Mary were born, quickly ascending to become one of the most influential folk groups of the decade.
Their impact on the music charts was undeniable. Peter, Paul and Mary placed an impressive six songs and five albums in Billboard’s Top 10, with two albums reaching the coveted No. 1 spot. Among their vast repertoire, Yarrow co-wrote some of their most enduring hits, including the whimsical classic “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” a song he began writing during his Cornell years, drawing inspiration from a poem by Leonard Lipton ’62. This song alone exemplifies the blend of lyrical storytelling and musicality that defined Peter, Paul and Mary’s signature sound.
Music as a Message: Activism and Iconic Songs
Peter, Paul and Mary were not just musicians; they were also vocal advocates for social change. Their music became intertwined with the progressive movements of the 1960s. They fearlessly transformed Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” into a powerful anthem for the Civil Rights movement, their rendition echoing across the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963, at the very site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic “I Have a Dream” speech. This performance solidified their role as musical voices of conscience during a pivotal era in American history.
Beyond civil rights, Peter, Paul and Mary consistently used their platform to address other pressing social issues. They lent their voices and music to presidential campaigns and actively participated in marches protesting the Vietnam War. Their commitment to progressive politics was not just a backdrop to their music; it was an integral part of their identity as artists and individuals. This fusion of music and activism resonated deeply with audiences and solidified their legacy as more than just entertainers.
Beyond the Trio: Solo Work and Operation Respect
After Peter, Paul and Mary disbanded in 1970, Peter Yarrow embarked on a solo career, releasing his own album and continuing to write songs that reflected his ongoing social concerns and musical passions. However, the magic of Peter, Paul and Mary was undeniable, leading to reunions for benefit concerts and, from 1978 onwards, regular touring. The trio continued to perform together until Mary Travers’s death in 2009, a testament to their enduring musical bond and the lasting appeal of their music.
In 2000, Yarrow channeled his commitment to social betterment into a new avenue by founding Operation Respect, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering safe and inclusive learning environments for schoolchildren. This initiative reflects his lifelong dedication to creating a more just and compassionate world, extending his activism beyond the realm of music and into direct social action.
An Enduring Cultural Legacy
Reflecting on the enduring impact of Peter, Paul and Mary in a 2014 interview, Yarrow insightfully noted, “These songs are around. They’re in the summer camps. They’re in the schools. They’re in the churches, the synagogues, the mosques even. They’re not going away.” His words underscore the timeless quality of their music and its pervasive presence in various facets of culture. Peter Of Paul And Mary’s songs transcended generations, becoming deeply embedded in the cultural fabric, predating the folk renaissance and destined to remain a significant part of our shared heritage for years to come.
Peter Yarrow’s passing is a significant loss, but his musical contributions and his unwavering commitment to social justice will continue to inspire. He is survived by his wife, Mary Beth McCarthy, his son and daughter, and a granddaughter. His legacy as Peter of Paul and Mary, a folk legend and a voice for positive change, will resonate for generations to come.
