Meet the Band

Raising River Band is a community of seasoned musicians brought together by original songs, rich harmonies, and a shared love of Americana, bluegrass, folk, blues, and roots music. Together, we create performances that invite audiences to laugh, reflect, sing along, and feel at home.

Currently Booking

Raising River Band performs in several flexible configurations, from its core regional lineup to an expanded ensemble featuring longtime bandmates (on Banjo, Mandolin and Pedal Steel Guitar) and special guest musicians for festivals, concerts, listening rooms, house concerts, community events, and private celebrations.

We're currently accepting inquiries for Fall 2026 and the 2027 season, with new original music and exciting projects on the horizon.

Meet the Band

Raising River Band is a longtime musical family built on original songs, close harmonies, friendship, and years of performing together.

The full Raising River Band features:

Sharis Swartley — Guitar, Lead Vocals & Songwriting
Steve Burr — Guitar, Banjo, Lead Vocals & Songwriting
Rod Arrington — Bass & Vocals
Vince “Fireball” Farabaugh — Harmonica
Dave Cram — Pedal Steel, Dobro & Resonator Guitar
Brian Rauch — Banjo, Mandolin & Vocals

Since Sharis and Steve moved south, Raising River Band has also performed in a smaller regional configuration with Rod and Vince. For festivals, larger concerts, and special events, the full band comes together—bringing the complete sound, history, harmonies, and musicianship of Raising River Band to the stage.

Together, the band creates an energetic blend of original Americana, folk, blues, bluegrass, and roots music, grounded in strong songwriting and the joy of making music together.

Original Music Coming Soon

Raising River Band has spent years writing, performing, and recording original music shaped by friendship, harmony, and a shared love of Americana and roots traditions.

We are now preparing these recordings for release and look forward to sharing more of the band’s original songs, stories, and sound with you soon.