Oh dear Peter -

The last time we saw you was in June of this year and your parting words to me were “Please keep in touch, I want to be there for you in this challenging time”. I reached out to share the news that Mike and I are both employed now and when I didn’t hear back from you, I knew something was not as it should be. I learned that you were home from the hospital but very weak. Today, Bethany’s email offering an opportunity to send a living tribute hit me hard as there is no way to sum up the impact you’ve had on my life but I will try to bring some highlights here.

Last week, I was showing Noah, now almost 14, a photo of himself at age 2 with Pete Seeger at my alma matter when Pete came to do a talk with song shortly after Toshi passed away. Noah has no recollection of this meeting. I am grateful to say that Noah has many memories of you, dear Peter, and he is at an age where those memories will stay with him.

When you invited me to come and work with Operation Respect, I went and spoke with the principal of the school I was teaching in and explained that I needed to leave my position as working with the DLAM program was a once in a lifetime opportunity. She understood and jokingly said “but he has to come sing for the kids first”. I relayed that message and within a couple of days, you were in a taxi on your way up to the Bronx to sing for/with a handful of the classes that I had already started introducing the DLAM curriculum to. This was a classic Peter. Someone, somewhere has a need and you do what you can to help. Over the years, the work of Operation Respect has remained dear to my heart but dearer is the truly remarkable man I got to know. Seeing you over the years has kept some part of my inner need to know things were really going to be okay, alive. The hope was ignited each time. Not only personal hope but hope for our communities, our country and the world. Each time, a reminder that there are people like you, the very best humanity has to offer, who live being lead by their heart and making the connections that need to be made to make change happen!

Fast forward to March of 2020 and the world came to “the great pause”. We didn’t know which end was up or where we were going. Your zoom calls, where we all talked and sang together, had more of an impact on my family than you could ever know. My mom joined in from Massachusetts and we joined in from Connecticut as we were not gathering together in person in those early days because we didn’t want to risk doing anything that could risk my octogenarian mother’s life. Those zooms kept our spirits up and gave us hope that despite all else, we would all be okay and carry on as the sweet survivors we are!

Just last week, Noah’s music teacher reached out to say that the class is going to transition from orchestra to guitar classes as "the 8th grade class curriculum delves into the rich heritage of The American Civil Rights Era. This shift in musical focus will allow students to study, play and sing songs that embody the spirit of this pivotal time in our history, fostering both musical growth and cultural understanding.” She went on to say that what they have planned is “historically significant and thought provoking music of Pete Seeger, Wood Guthrie and more”. Noah and I talked about your role in The Civil Rights Movement. Noah grew up with your presence in his life and understands how remarkable you are in the bigger picture, far more than just the man who called himself “Uncle Peter” when Noah was a younger boy. The first thing I thought of when I got the email from Noah’s teacher was - I know that if Peter was well and I asked, he would hop in a car and share with Noah’s class his first hand experiences with what they are studying and sing with them, just like he hopped in that taxi to sing in the Bronx.

My mother wrote a “Letter to The Editor” last month, they accepted it and held it until after the election. In the letter, she talked about how we need to come together and heal and not live in the divide. She introduced people to Braver Angels and provided a link to their site. This was another part of our lives that came thru you; my mom is involved with Braver Angels as a result of your sharing about the work you were doing with them and introducing us to them.

With that, I want to thank you for being the shining star that you have been in my life and my family’s life! We are grateful for you and all the better for the connection to you!

With much love and admiration,

Tahri (Gang)  

Peter - it’s jaimee king, Linda Carroll Barraud’s daughter.
I just want to thank you for all you’ve been to our family - to this world.
I don’t know if you recall the story, but long before we met you personally, I took my little boy to your concert at a park in San Francisco. You had all the kids come to the stage, and just as you started to play, the most horrible screeching of static occurred. To my horror, I loved and saw my 2year old holding both ends to the amp cord that he’d yanked out with delight making that awful noise. I was mortified and ran up to grab him, and you just smiled, plugged the amp back in, and went back to it. In inconsequential event, but a core memory.
And now, we have more. You playing music with your lovely children at the ranch and at mom’s house - you playing for mom at her birthday party this year by zoom. You show up so completely. You’re a gift to our world, a gift to my family - thank you for everything.
Much love,
Jaimee King   

We have all been so very blessed to have Peter in all of our lives for so many years. We have unforgettable happy memories of love, music, laughter, joy, shared meals, and deeply meaningful shared passions and hopefulness, even during challenging times. We saw the deep fatherly love and pride he felt for Bethany & Christopher during visits and performances at Rancho La Puerta. His deep love and compassion extended to all of us who were so honored to be included in his circle of friends, that became an integral part of his extended family. Peter & Puff have a shared magical dragon spirit that can never be extinguished, and will always have a warmly embraced presence in our hearts, that we will cherish and pass on to future generations. Godspeed our beloved dragons, Peter & Puff, our love will always be with you, accompanying you on your heavenly journeys.

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- Joseph, Nancy, Danielle, Jeremy, Lizzy, Courie, Indy, Ridley, & Ayla Weiss

I saw the photo of you singing to my brother in his hospital bed with a circle of family and friends around you. I was devastated that I had not been there been there.
And Lo And Behold a year after my brother’s death, I was singing Puff the Magic Dragon with you, at Alex’s gravesite in 2003 for my brother’s yartzeit.
This memory added to so many others shines with your love and generosity. Your remarkable way of engaging moments of sorrow and turning them towards strength, towards unity, celebration and tenderness, in the spirit of we shall overcome. You walk into the grieving Spaces after a school shooting and create healing magic You dare to bring that twinkle in your eyes and face down monstrosities.
Of all the times that I have sung your songs through the years and all the ways your songs have carried me since I learned to play the guitar when I was 12 years old, my favorite memory is singing all the songs in Peter, Paul, and Mommy over and over again with Emily when she was four or five years old and we were driving back-and-forth to the ranch from our cabin in the mountains. The time would fly by. In these last days and hours I pray that your soul travels well, knowing that you will be remembered with great love and that your songs will continue to flow through us in sorrow and in joy. Dearest Peter, thank you for being in my life.

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- Sarah Brightwood

Peter
I am tiny, maybe 4, twirling around singing along with you, Paul and Mary. I love you.

I learn so much through the songs that you sing. You hold my tiny hand, and shape my voice, values and heart— even as we had not yet met.

My high school and college years at University of Oregon: I sing your songs to myself through moments of my life. Scary, hard, beautiful, resolved. Your voice and mine are merged.

I sing your songs to my babies. They learn about beauty and pain and their job as healthy citizens of this planet and stewards of the earth. Your voice still finds me, I am a young adult. Your words still teach me and help me become more courageous and stay kind.

I am sitting with you at the ranch. We sing together. My heart is home and filled with joy. We are in the same room. We are at the same table. We share food and words. You have become a dear, dear family friend. You are every bit as magical as my tiny self imagined— and more— and I love you— more.

I am at Sundance film festival with you. You bring me places with you. I talk about bullying prevention. You teach me even more. You feed me. You teach me new things. We see other artists and You show impeccable respect. You take me to my first Jewish experience. You are generous and kind and consistently humane. You are also very funny and fun.

You show up. You sing. You get the room laughing. After such an event at our la jolla home, people write me thank you’s for weeks. It is all you. You bring people to the center of our hearts, remind us of our souls, and flood the spaces that you are in with love. People write me, “it was a spiritual experience to be with you and Peter and everyone in that room.” People remember that they are each sacred around you— that we are each sacred.

You are my hero, my heartbeat and my beloved friend. I hold hands with you at the edge of a field of wildflowers, and I breathe us both. You are held as you have held. Your footsteps continue. I hear you around corners, in guitars, in record players, streaming, and in bubbling creeks in the mountain towns.

I love you forever and I am more me because I have had the privilege of being here with you.

I hear you in the children in the yard next door, they sing, “five, ten, fifteen, twenty…”

I love you, Peter Yarrow, my Uncle Peter. I am hugging and kissing you right now, feeling your goodness lift this world. We are better beings because you've been one of us. You have done so very well. So very, very well by all of us. A champion of humanity indeed.

Forever yours,
Nicole Jon Sievers

You were kind, generous, and professional when we first met at your guest artist spot at The Flagpole Radio Cafe show in Newtown, CT.

Two years later, when our lives and hearts were torn apart and we were so deep underwater in grief and sadness, you were selfless in your love and care for us. You came to our home and cried with us, held us, and sang with us. You kept us in your mind and heart in the years that followed and we are honored and so grateful to have had that time with you and your many healing gifts and those of your family. Your dedication to those who need help and a voice lifted in song is unparalleled and one of the greatest gifts the universe has given us is to have had you by our side when we could not stand. Thank you for everything, Peter, we love you very much.

—David and Francine Wheeler  

Peter, you are my treasured partner in crime in all things Nantucket – whether at Harris Wofford's wedding on the beach where you played so magnificently, or at our home in Sconset where you graced us for several years as our most accomplished and fun and musically gifted chef and house guest. The concerts there which you always welcomed enthusiastically transported so many lucky Nantucket friends who talk about them all the time and wonder when are we doing another with the fabulous Peter Yarrow. Best of all among so many memories is the time you sang for our supper literally – on the docks with the astounded and thrilled fisherman family, which talks about you to this day– you sang the whole of Puff and we were given about 15 huge freshly caught bluefish fillets and you kindly sat for hours in our kitchen and made them into a gigantic bowl of fabulous bluefish salad which we shared widely! I play your music all the time and you are with me so often therefore. Love you love love love love love you, my dearest dragon friend for so many decades. Thank you for the incredible joy you've brought to me and to so many lucky people on this planet. Your music always has the ability to make me float and laugh and smile and it always will. Love you to bits and pieces, dearest friend Peter,
Elizabeth Vale  

Peter you are a deeply dear and beloved friend to me and my family. I’ll never forget the first time I met you. I was around 20 years old, and I was a bit nervous. You had become friends with my parents who spoke adoringly of time spent together, but still I knew you from having grown up with your music, and I knew you as a famous and brilliant musician and activist. I’ll never forget how you immediately disarmed me with an abundant and playful generosity of spirit. You extended to me the most welcoming open-heartedness, and you took my hand and spun me around while singing my name in an intentionally goofy voice. My nerves disappeared and to me, you were family.

Over the years, I’ve come to understand that this moment was essentially you. You have an absolutely extraordinary capacity for loving kindness, and you bring this out in other people. Your inner child greets the inner child of another. We often go through the world distancing ourselves from others, and both expecting and creating exclusion. To know you is to experience the gift and the power of inclusion, and to be inspired to share that with others.

I’ve been in awe of how your intent and practice are to expand your circle of love. As I think back on the amazing times spent with you, and with Bethany and Valentina, and with my parents and brothers and my niece and nephew… talking, listening, singing, laughing, supporting each other, being together … and the many wonderful concerts, and your touching work to prevent bullying and the countless impactful events you performed at to support good causes and good friends and to stand up for those who need it…. I can see it all framed this way. We have been so incredibly lucky to gather together in a circle of love, in your circle of love. I am so deeply grateful to you.

The circle of love is ever expanding. It has become a transformative force of its own. You are forever the source of its profound radiance.

Peter- thank you for your presence, your heart, your friendship, your music, your love, and for showing all of us the way to each other.

-Jordanna Polis Schutz

Peter, You have touched and influenced my life since I was 11 years old. I could play guitar back then (1964) and I tried to emulate all of your wonderful finger-picking guitar passages. In that same year I had my first paying gig, playing; Blowing in the Wind, If I had a Hammer, etc. I was paid five bucks which felt like a fortune. Fast forward to a year ago when you called me to invite me to accompany you & Noel on mandolin and guitar. During that initial call, I relayed the above story to you and without missing a beat, you said:"So where's my commission?"....your sharp-witted, gentle, humor had me in an instant. I already knew that I loved your musicality, and you were one of the guiding beacons of social justice that has helped to illuminate a path for me...and for all of us, really, so I knew that working with you was going to be really special, but I didn't yet know how truly special it would be. You welcomed me in like a long lost brother. I treasure the times we sat in your apartment, playing guitars, eating Chinese food, discussing the world. You were a "hero' when I was 10, and now at age 71, you remain a hero to, but more importantly, a friend that I love. Weave me the Sunshine, dear Brother Peter, you're forever in my heart. -Gordon 

Dear Peter, you are a dear friend to so many people and I am honored to be one. After loving Peter, Paul and Mary for decades, I had the honor of volunteering at the National Association of Elementary School Principals convention in San Francisco when Peter, Paul and Mary introduced the anti-bullying program, Operation Respect, based on the Steve Seskin and Allen Shamblin song "Don't Laugh At Me" . Shortly after, you presented it to the California State PTA (Parent Teacher Association) Convention. As the San Francisco PTA president, I turned to the friend next to me and said I want to get Peter to our Founder's Day dinner and forgetting that magic happens, I added, "yeah, right!" Of course it did happen and you presented the program to the San Francisco Unified School District back to school rally for all of the teachers. Peter, you fill my heart with joy and love. You are the best hugger! I love you for all that you are including your strong commitment to social justice. One of your projects that moves me deeply, because it helps immigrant families in multiple ways, is One Story At a Time. My talks and meals with you are important moments in my life. My son Coleman, has known and loved you since he was in 5th grade and I love how you connected with Coleman from the start. A bonus of being your friend has been getting to know some of your family, friends, and fans, including Bethany, Valentina, and Tony Arancio. I love Brenda Goldman and her family. The most recent time we saw one another was in March, 2024 in Monterey, California where you and Noel performed. After the concert you greeted us at the front of the stage and you said to me, Sherrie, come here. You have to meet these amazing musicians who live near you, Judi Jaeger and Bob Reid. You are going to love them. Of course, you are right. I've been to two of their concerts virtually already and hope to see them in person soon. I love you deeply, Peter, and am eternally grateful that you are in the world making it a better place and in my life bringing me joy and so much more.  

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- Sherrie Rosenberg

So many stories to share!!!
We grew up on Peter, Paul and Mary. From the day their first album was out their music filled our home. My late mother taught elementary school music and although she studied opera and concert piano she loved folk music.
Peter has said she was a product of her times…a “closet Commie”…remember??? as she taught us the entire Pete Seeger canon as well. But Peter, Paul and Mary was her go to and ours….we learned and still them all…every last one and since I also know his latest.
As I grew older their songs took on more and more meaning for me and by the time I was a teenager and involved in Anti-War activities their songs and singing were my prayers and still are. I seriously wore out the grooves in my LPs.
I got married and moved to Israel. In June of 1983 they gave a concert in the Sultan’s Pools under the wall of the Old City. We were there…with a big crowd and a bottle of wine. It was magic. And then, as I recalled, it, Peter took a piece of paper and taped it to the mike. He explained that he had written a new verse and wanted to make sure he got it right. He then said…I have denied my heritage for many years….under the walls of the Old City, in the Holy City of Jerusalem I declare that I am back. And then they sang “Light One Candle” which has become our Chanukah theme song and we have been blessed by Peter singing it for/with us, in “modern times” at our home on Chanukah as well.
Bottom line….so I remembered the story. I might also add that my wife’s, Debbie, late father was a well-known Israeli government official of the time. He met them before the concert and brought us home a signed LP…
We continued our love for their music. Taught our children every song. Never met them. always from a distance.
Then, Peter…this is where the real story starts…..David Broza….Peter’s dear friend and fellow musician…called me and asked if I’d like to meet Peter…knowing my obsession with the music.
After I hyperventilated I said…hell yes and a new chapter in our lives was written.
When we met, I asked Peter..if I remembered the story correctly….he teared up and gave me the whole amazing back story and we have been together ever since and Peter will be forever!!!
That day began the most amazing Friday Night Shabbat Dinners at our place with your holy singing….great stories for another post…I could write a book…..meetings in diners….Italian restaurants….your apartment on the UWS.
You brought me into powerful projects like Better Angels….fighting Anti-Semitism…..political activism – where you would begin, on zoom, with a song of course, I’d speak about the power of voting and getting the vote out and of course you’d end with a song….If I had a Hammer and Blowing In The Wind always….Debbie used to listen and said it was like watching a movie about the 6o’s it was so powerful.
And so much more!!!! not to mention my Birthday Parties!!!! LOL……blew everyone’s mind that Peter Yarrow sang and ended by leading the crowd already singing with you in Happy Birthday.
Peter, you bless us….make our life’s better…..increase our conscience……changed us……you are the Holy Dragon and “Dragons live forever”!!!!!
We love you!!!!! Dear Pessach….we love you!!!!!!

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- David Sable

It's with a heavy/loving heart I look back at my beautiful memories of my precious friend Peter. When I was 13 (1963) attended my first P, P & M concert. Exiting down a back stairwell, Peter appeared, spoke with me, offering a memorable moment. In later years we became friends seeing him a few times a year. He and his kids were my Thanksgiving guests in Vail, CO. Friendship allowed invitations on a few Human Rights Project congressional delegations. One to the middle east leading him to start his own 501c3, "Operation Respect" after witnessing the separation of young people due to religious differences. He knew more joined than separated them. God bless Peter! Can't imagine the world without him and all his love for humanity. Love and endless blessings my dearest, precious friend. When you leave for your new dimension I pray to feel your presence every day!! XOXO  

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- Michelle Jourdak

My friendship with my very dear friend Peter has been an important part of my life for the past 20 years. He represents so much that is good and needed in the world, and I admire him as much as anyone I have ever known.
Intelligence. Humor. Veracity, Integrity. Action. Bravery. These all describe Peter. But the word I most associate with him is passion. Make that Passion, with a capital P.
Not long after we met, Peter asked me to be on his Operation Respect Board. "But do not join unless you have passion for it," he said. "I want people with a passion for what we do."
I was honored to be asked, and happy to accept. However, on the day I was to first go to Peter's house to meet the rest of the board, my marriage exploded. In shock and dismay, I called Peter and told him I was unable to go. Not only did he offer words of solace and wisdom, but continued to do so in the months ahead, helping me through a very difficult time.
And that is Peter. Known for his musical and humanitarian work on a global scale, he is also able to relate on an intimate, personal one, showing that he hears you and he cares. He is truly one of a kind.
There are many individuals who speak of the concerns of the world; Peter acts upon them. He has been tireless in his work with the downtrodden, the underserved, the oppressed. And it is always with a song, a song that he shares with us all, and in doing so, he gives us hope.
He is also my phone buddy, with whom I can discuss politics and other shared interests for long periods of time.
I love Peter. I hope he knows it, because I truly do.

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- Dolores Eyler

While Pater and I had a long overlapping history (for example, we were both at the Washington DC Vietnam War protest in 1971), we did not actually meet until 2010 when he was invited to Ukraine by Peace Corps Volunteers when I was their country director. At his first concert for the Volunteers, I ended up on stage joining him on “If I Had a Hammer.” I uploaded a photo of that memorable occasion! Peter inspired the Volunteers with his Operation Respect messages and came back many times over the next few years.

Peter and I reconnected in 2019 when he did a benefit concert with Noel Paul Stookey at the Lebanon (NH) Opera House. He greeted me with a warm hug and told me about Braver Angels (then called Better Angels), the national citizens movement that brings Americans together to bridge the partisan divide. Embracing values of respect, humility, honesty, and responsible citizenship, the goal is not to change people’s views of issues, but to change their views of each other. I have been involved ever since!

Thank you, Peter!

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- Doulgass Teschner

Dearest Peter,
You are a special person for so many reasons. You are an important part of our lives and always will be so. When Burt was ill, you came to our home and performed your magic for him to relieve him from his pain and suffering. You and Puff the Magic Dragon lifted all our spirits. You generously have given to the entire world a heart filled with love and the joy of living. Your legendary music inspired us whenever we heard you, Paul and Mary sing, in Brooklyn and at Tanglewood. You made us feel special when Burt and I walked down the aisle at Carnegie Hall when you would yell out and, of course, at the top of your voice, “Here Come the Fendelman’s”. Your social activism was and is still an inspiration to me and to so many others! Know that you are beloved by so many! Sending you love and peace!

- Helaine

My Dear Brother Peter,
I am so sorry to hear that your battle with cancer has not been going well. The note I received from Christopher and Bethany has led me to do a lot of reflecting on our great friendship of the last almost 10 years. When we first met at a Carter Center event in California I was excited to tell you that Peter Paul and Mary's first record album was the first one I bought with my own money as a high school student in back in1963 and that I remember listening to it whenever I possibly could. Our friendship developed from
there and it would take a few typewritten pages to describe all of the wonderful interactions I have had with you since then. Even though we have lived far apart I have been so very grateful that we have been able to stay in close touch through subsequent Carter Center events, your concert dates in Minnesota (during one of which you introduced me to Noel Paul Stookey!), regular
texts and occasional phone calls. You have had a tremendous positive influence on my son Curt and his family and I can't thank you enough for that-Curt will never forget the glowing critique you provided after I shared a video of his version of "Don't Laugh at Me". I am aware of many of your humanitarian efforts over the years but am certain that I am not aware of many others. It is mind
boggling to me when I try to contemplate all of the lives you have had such a positive effect on throughout your life. I can truthfully say that there is no other human being that I admire more than you and I am eternally grateful that you have honored me with your friendship. I love you Peter Yarrow! Your Forever Brother Bob XXXXXXOOOOOO 

I have so many fond memories with Peter. It is hard to put them all in writing, but I will tell you a few which have always stuck with me.

When I was in the 4th grade, Peter was preforming a singalong with a school. While he was singing with the students of the school I got up to go see Mary. Peter, in the middle of his song, says where is my sweetheart Sarah going. No matter if it was that moment or the many concerts/events I spent time with him, he would always look out for me and make sure I was around. Sometimes Peter would even enlist me to help with sound checks. Peter has such a kind heart and was a very close friend to my mom and me. My mom was sick for many years and he would always check in and call her to see how she was. He truly cares for others and shows his love for everyone.

Peter is an amazing, caring, loving and most of all an inspiring friend. I have been fortunate to have such an amazing friend in my life and I know many others feel the same.  

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- Sarah Burch

My brother Peter: My heart is full with numerous warm memories of our times together and your plentiful kindnesses to me. Three stand out.

First--years ago you came to my synagogue in D.C. to do a concert. We did a sound check together. We were having so much fun, it turned into a ten-song soundcheck. Which then turned into the entire second set of the concert. At the end of the first set, you told the crowd I'd be joining you for the second set. You said "I enjoy singing with Doug so much, I'm thinking of leaving the group." You paused, then said "Just kidding." After we sang "Such Is Love" to open the second set, I said: "Peter, I'm glad you told the audience that your line about leaving the group was just a joke. For a moment, I had an image that I would go down in folk music history: "Doug Mishkin, the Yoko Ono of Peter Paul & Mary."

2. From the first time I heard "Sweet Survivor," I knew I'd be singing it for the rest of my life. And I have. Your joining me to record it on an album of mine in 2008 is a never-ending thrill of mine.

3. At the URJ Biennial in 1997, you ended the evening's concert by singing "Day Is Done." I was on your left. Bethany and Debbie Friedman were on your right. You gave me the second verse, Debbie the third. Behind us were Saperstein and Vorspan.
It was a moment of sheer joy. I couldn't have been more proud. Recently one of my daughters found the video on YouTube and asked if I'd ever seen it. I told her: "Only a few hundred times." I look at the young people in the audience and am moved to tears by their sheer joy in singing along. You did that for them, and have done it for me my entire life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1icsAdG1t44. Sending all my love, knowing all will indeed be well when the day is done.

Doug

While the world knows you as a legendary musician, for the past 30 years we've been blessed to know you as a devoted friend, tireless activist, and constant inspiration. Your loyalty and dedication to both personal friendships and the larger fight for humanity have shown us what it means to live one's values fully.
Some battles may have seemed like tilting at windmills, but you've shown us time and again that persistent dedication to justice yields real change. Your work with Operation Respect has transformed countless young lives. Your unwavering commitment to civil rights protests helped bend the arc of history toward justice. And through Better Angels, you've helped bridge divides that many thought impossible to cross.
You've taught us that being on the side of the angels isn't just about fighting the good fight - it's about achieving tangible progress through unwavering dedication and moral courage. Your friendship has enriched our lives immeasurably, not because of your fame or your music, but because of your fundamental decency, your fierce loyalty, and your proven ability to make the world better.
With deep love and gratitude,
Irene and Lee

My Pietro--your generosity that shows up in the endless outpouring of your music is something I have experienced in everything from meals to carpets or paintings or introductions to such as Seiji Ozawa or some obscure wrist watch you decided I simply must have. And what taste you always showed in the gifting! I have said thanks to you more often (almost) than to Mother Tao and routinely we both enjoyed whatever it might be. But our main gifts to each other may have been those combination walks in Central Park with talks about whatever....just for the pleasure of exercising our minds. We'd even find ourselves learning something sometimes. The true pleasure though was in expressing mutual love for each other. I am most pleased to have pointed out and shared unusual bird songs, trees, and all manner of natural fascinations with you over the years. But you yourself are the greatest natural fascination to me. YOU the being...expressing and sharing in this
world which sometimes seems to be trying to teach humans to be mean, selfish and cold-hearted. You have been, nose in the wind, always insisting on beauty and thoughtfulness. You, our Ambassador of the songs and singers, puppets and dancers of EMBRACING THE ROOT, will always be with us wherever the wisdom of the trees, lakes and stars will lead. So as always, my beloved Pietro, keep a'rockin' and keep our love in mind wherever that may take you.  

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- Carman Moore

Peter
Our love
Our Dragon

Your sweetness
and endless loving being
I love you
forever
Your name and spirit lives on
making us remember
what it means to be human.

Thank you for all you give
To Carman
To Embracing the Root
To me
We created a new theatre form
Together
with you.

We love you
Forever.

Lotte

Peter, I think we must have met in 1952, in our second year of high school, but I'm not sure! I have such vivid memories of you, especially lugging that guitar up and down the many staircases in the park facing Music & Art. I especially remember when you and I, in a premature example of resistance, wore JEANS to the Easter Parade! Remember? The last time I saw you was at dinner when you took me to your special Chinese restaurant in midtown, before the pandemic started. Though time and distance often separated us, our relationship never wavered over lo these many decades. YOU'VE DONE GOOD.
With much love,
Dottie Zellner

Dearest Peter,

As Linda Carroll’s husband, I was blessed to know you when you came into our lives and home as the co-creator of One Story at a Time. Like so many others, to know you is to love you.

I remember such sweet, short episodes of life with you, and warmth fills my heart as I write this.

I send you great love and gratitude for all you have given, supported, made happen, and loved in life. Thank you for your great heart and everywhere it has taken you.

Your goodness is not just for humans, I remember how much you tolerated our dogs when you sat with them in the back of the car and let them roll all over you with your usual humor and patience.

Go gently into the great night, Peter. You have given so much, and the returns will continue always.

Great love to you,

Tim

Dear Peter, my friend, my brother,

I'm not sure I've ever told you that before we met and became friends, you were one of my heroes. On the steps of the High School of Music and Art, my first foray into music and any notion of doing it for a living was born out of my love for Peter, Paul and Mary. It wasn't just about the sound, it was about using music for social change, awareness and peace building. That was 1969! Fast forward 30 years when we met (thanks to Bethany) at the Kerrville Folk Festival. You paid me the ultimate compliment when you said "Don't Laugh At Me" is a song the whole world needs to hear. I was overwhelmed with joy when the trio decided to perform the song but the true icing on the cake was the birth of Operation Respect and my inclusion in a project that to this day is doing incredible work in teaching children about kindness, respect, friendship and being of service. You gave me the gift of seeing first hand how my work could and did make a difference. With all my heart, thank you for that.

Getting to know you over the last 25 years has been such a blessing. Your faith in me has given me the courage to try all kinds of things. I will never forget working with you in Parkland FL after the shooting there, writing a song after the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre, our work with Braver Angels trying to help people find common ground and countless more opportunities I had, to walk the walk that you have always walked! There's a quote I love that says " maybe happiness is not about us, as individuals. Maybe it is not something that arrives into us. Maybe happiness is felt heading out, not in. maybe it's all about what we can give. " Giving - That's something you know a lot about my friend. You have devoted your whole life to it. So many have tried to follow in your footsteps including me.

I treasure the memories of our time at concerts, singing at conferences, schools and just for the fun of it. I still can remember how nervous I was at Town Hall when Mary couldn't make the show because of illness and you nonchalantly asked me if I would sing her part on "Don't Laugh At Me" with you and Noel. Of course I said yes but in case you didn't know, I was shaking in my shoes.

I can still taste the late night food we consumed in 100s of Chinese restaurants, Italian trattorias and Jewish Delis. Recently we shared a salad together in our token attempt to eat healthy. In 30 years, you never let me pick up a check damnit. You said it brought you joy to treat people to a good meal. More giving...

On a funny note, remember when we tried writing a sequel to Puff? I knew we were good friends when I had the chutzpah to insist that you give me your phone before we started working on it because I didn't want us to be interrupted by the 25 calls you'd probably get in the three hours we had scheduled. You stood your ground saying " I will not give you my phone but I will agree to only take calls from very important people". I thought to myself : How many important people can one guy know who would call in the next three hours? You only took four calls - John Kerry, Gloria Steinem, John Garamendi and Norman Lear. Still cracks me up...

Recently, I got to see you twice. The first time was in Monterey at a wonderful show you and Noel did together where once again you so graciously asked me to sing a song. The last time was in NY where we spent a wonderful time eating that salad followed by a Lincoln Center coffee shop visit where I had you all to myself for two and a half hours. Heaven on earth! We talked politics, Israel, music and life. At one point you told me that when it was time for you to go, you were ready. At peace with your life and what you had done with it. I remember thinking that it was understandable given you had done more than any ten people I know.

The gift of knowing you, loving you and truly "getting you" in a way that rubbed off on me and how I live my life has been such a blessing Peter. I will carry your smile, your love and the torch you lit long ago as long as I walk this earth. You have my word on that.
May your journey wherever you're heading from here bring you much peace. I'm uploading a song I wrote with Allen Shamblin called "Good To Go" which I truly believe when it's time, you will be. Change the word Daddy to Buddy and every word fits you to a T. I love you my brother. 

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- Steve Seskin

Hi Peter,
Chris Chandler here There are so many ways that you have touched and impacted my life, not the least of which is the admirable way in which you put your activism so squarely in the middle of your art.

I have always seen you as a role model kind of tried to emulate the importance of the message in the art that I create

I am also deeply appreciative of the way in which you went to bat for me at the Kerrville folk festival, even agreeing to let me release a live recording of one of our performances. Performing with you has been one of the highlights of my life. Also recording Our mutual, dear friend Anne Feeney‘s important song. Have you been to jail for justice? Is something for which she was most pleased. The visibility that you gave her helped the two of us find more rewarding work and helped get our message out to larger audiences.

My life is much richer and Fuller because you are in it. Thank you for helping me to become the person that I am.

I love you
Chris Chandler  

There are so many stories since I first met you (Peter) when I was a New Folk at Kerrville in 1974. You music and activism had inspired me from my early teens on. During my time in the Texas Legislature, I always tried to keep your mantra of finding the humanity in everyone, even those you disagree with, in my mind and practice. I appreciated your coming out and singing to my campaign volunteers after the concert when we brought them to see P, P & M in 1980. I have enjoyed the many opportunities to sing with you (and with Christopher) at Kerrville and especially when I sang for you at your 50th birthday party in Austin in 1988. My favorite story, though, is my 15 seconds of fame. We were in NYC visiting Sharon's recently retired rabbinic partner from her Buffalo congregation when we learned about the Pete Seeger tribute concert that you and Bethany had helped organize. We tried to see you before and then after the concert but security wouldn't let us through. We then walked a few blocks away with the Rabbi and his wife to find food and saw you standing outside a restaurant that opened up onto tables on the sidewalk, talking to someone there. We went up to you and you hugged Sharon with your usual "My Cantor" and then me with a loud "Paul". We introduced you to the Rabbi and hi wife and chatted for a few minutes but they wanted to continue on to find a less busy place to eat. I stayed and we talked for a few more minutes, but as I left, I heard someone at one of the tables inside say, "Do you know who that is? That's Peter Yarrow." And then one of his tablemates chimed in, "And that one is Paul!" I guess I looked a foot taller. Peter, I hear your voice in my head all the time. Your example and your friendship have been repeated highlights in my life (I've also appreciated the many chocolate birthday cakes at Kerrville.) You have worked ceaselessly to repair the world and have made a difference in the lives of so many.

May your days be peaceful and surrounded by love.

Paul (and Sharon and Nathan) Colbert  

Peter,
How long has it been? I counted and am surprised that it’s been 57 years since I first met you in 1967. I was just a teenager then. You were a big star, a member of one of the most popular groups in the US, and also in Japan. Yet, when I met you for the first time in the lobby of Hotel Okura, you spoke to me in a very polite and friendly manner, not blaming me for my ignorance about your songs or anything. At the time, I didn’t have any of your records (singles) let alone albums.
Since then, we spoke a lot, most of the time you were asking questions about me, my school life, Japanese lifestyle, and so on. I really enjoyed and appreciated each of those moments. In 1970, you brought Mary Beth with you and proudly announced that she was three months pregnant.
Then there was a twenty-year hiatus. When I saw you again in 1990, we had gone through a lot in life, and we both had a wonderful time sharing each other’s stories. Remember when you flew into Japan from Hong Kong, and hurried to the venue where the PP&M fan club was holding a Festa? How the audience got excited when you walked onto the stage to finish Puff sing out! Remember when Kenzo Tomotoshi took us to the fish market? Kenzo treated us to an exquisite sushi lunch.
So many memories and memories. I always admired your activism, and though on a much smaller scale, I will continue to act for peace, equality, justice, and conserving the environment. I strongly believe that I had such a good luck in having you as my mentor. You have inspired me to be strong and honest as well as humble. Thank you, Peter, for leading me. I promise I will keep on living my life to the fullest.
XXOO
Andi Ogawa
Japan

Dear Dear Peter,

I saw you first in Denver CO around 1965 at a performance and I, along with everyone else was drawn to an undefined powerful energy field.
Next, thanks to JK I met you on the Upper Wharf and your first for me a sing at Pony Pasture. Your visits to Shore House are in my heart with music, many jokes passed back and forth and when you cooked, delicious dining. You are a treasure in my heart.
And then you gave up your wonderful home to fund raise for Arnie Arnesen For her run for GOV in NH. you also performed in Portsmouth NH where you stayed to sing after the main event sang and met with all the volunteers from her campaign. Sterling College was another time at your place with your singing and Jed playing the spoons! Thank you again. Your warm and kind generosity extended to our children as well. You are one of a kind and made the world a better place and certainly a wonderful friend.
A big hug and lots of love always,
Perry

Peter, my bro… My first memory of you was at a P.P.M concert in Salt Lake City 1965! Shortly after, Perry saw you in Denver. We were comparing or memories of that this morning. She’ll provide hers. Mine was joy, awe, and appreciation. Didn’t see you again until summer of 1972 on Naushon, where you, John Kerry, and George Butler had landed for a short break from your efforts with Vietnam Veterans Against the War. Your presence resulted in a good gathering for singing with family, and fun visits on walks and at Shore House, among other things. I even got to play spoons with you at the sing. So going forward, I could say, “Sure, I played in concert with him…”
Memorable events together include more Naushon visits, the Arneson for Governor of NH campaign (Perry will fill in here), your hosting a fundraising event for us at our apartment when we were at Sterling College. The occasion was the opening of the iMax Endurance and Caroline Alexander holding forth at the Museum of Natural History, where Shackleton’s lifeboat “James Caird” was on display. You sang for our invited guests – and inspired some contributions!
We will never forget the surprise you gave us by coming to Sterling College in 2006 to sing for the graduating class, their families, our board, and us in this, our retirement year. A total selfless surprise! And I got to be in concert with you again – playing spoons!
Our last breaking of bread together was after a performance you and Paul did in Lebanon, NH in 2019… Sad that we did not have a chance to meet in person again, but grateful for being able to stay in touch.
Your contributions to bringing different cultures and thereby steps forward toward world peace will live on – as will our remembrances of you and our many times together. Love always, Jed…

I’ve known Peter for 71 - perhaps 72 years. At Music and Art High School he was a pretty annoying kid - But then he morphed into a brilliant songwriter and passionate fighter for the ideals we treasure. Peter is the most empathetic iconoclast who ever graced Planet Earth!

When I was at home with my three year-old daughter on August 28, 1963, I watched Peter, Paul and Mary sing their hearts out at the March on Washington. For civil rights, for anti-bullying, for Jewish causes (e.g. “Light One Candle”), Peter fought the good fight. What a life! We love you, Peter Yarrow.  

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- Isabelle Ganz

Peter,

Your friendship has meant so much to me, from our first meeting at the Carter weekend eight years ago to our dinner at the Leopard this year on your birthday. Your wise perspective in our discussions on how to reduce political polarization have really helped shape my thinking. Thanks for introducing me to Braver Angels – I continue to support their important work.
The opportunity to play music with you and Bethany at the Habitat benefit concerts in Beaver Creek will always be a high point for me – and for everyone involved. What I’ve enjoyed most is that you’re just a cool guy who’s a blast to spend time with. Janet and I are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

Jim Stanard

Peter,

For more than 40 years we have been friends. My family grew up with “Uncle Peter” and now my grandson listens to your music in Israel. There will be many who will eloquently discuss the impact your music has made on generations of