Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head. The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay, The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.
Editor’s Notes: “Away in a Manger” is a beloved Christmas carol that has been sung for generations. The simple lyrics and beautiful melody make it a favorite of children and adults alike. If you’re looking for an easy-to-play guitar version of this classic carol, we’ve got you covered. Here are the chords and lyrics so you can start strumming away!
We’ve put together this guide to help you learn how to play “Away in a Manger” on guitar. We’ll walk you through the chords, strumming pattern, and lyrics. So grab your guitar and let’s get started!
| Chord | Diagram |
|---|---|
| C | [x32010] |
| G | [320003] |
| F | [133211] |
| Am | [002210] |
Once you’ve mastered the chords, you can start strumming along to the melody. The strumming pattern for “Away in a Manger” is simple: down, down, down, up, down, up. You can also add a little embellishment by strumming the bass notes on the offbeats.
Now that you know the chords and strumming pattern, you’re ready to start singing along! The lyrics to “Away in a Manger” are simple and easy to remember, so you’ll be singing like a pro in no time.
Here are the lyrics to “Away in a Manger”:
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head. The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay, The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the Baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes. I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky, And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay Close by me forever, and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, And take us to heaven to live with thee there.
We hope you enjoy playing and singing “Away in a Manger” on guitar. It’s a beautiful and timeless carol that will surely get you into the Christmas spirit.
1. C major
The C major chord is the most commonly used chord in the song “Away in a Manger” because it is the key of the song. The key of a song is the scale that the song is based on, and the C major scale is one of the most common scales used in Western music. The C major chord is also a very simple chord to play, which makes it a good choice for beginners.
- Role of the C major chord: The C major chord provides the harmonic foundation for the song. It is the chord that is played on the first beat of each measure, and it is the chord that the melody revolves around.
- Examples: The C major chord is used in many other popular songs, such as “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night,” and “Amazing Grace.”
- Implications for guitarists: If you are a guitarist, it is important to be able to play the C major chord. It is one of the most common chords used in guitar music, and it is essential for playing many popular songs.
In conclusion, the C major chord is the most commonly used chord in the song “Away in a Manger” because it is the key of the song and it is a simple chord to play. If you are a guitarist, it is important to be able to play the C major chord so that you can play this popular Christmas carol and many other songs.
2. G major
The G major chord is the second most commonly used chord in the song “Away in a Manger” because it is the chord that is used to harmonize the melody on the second beat of each measure. The G major chord is also a very common chord in general, and it is used in many other popular songs, such as “Happy Birthday,” “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” and “Amazing Grace.”
The G major chord is a relatively simple chord to play on the guitar, and it is a good choice for beginners. The chord is played by placing your index finger on the second fret of the sixth string, your middle finger on the second fret of the fifth string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the fourth string. You can strum all six strings of the guitar to play the G major chord, or you can strum just the top five strings.
If you are a guitarist, it is important to be able to play the G major chord. It is one of the most common chords used in guitar music, and it is essential for playing many popular songs. The G major chord is also a good chord to use for improvisation, and it can be used to create a variety of different sounds.
In conclusion, the G major chord is the second most commonly used chord in the song “Away in a Manger” because it is used to harmonize the melody on the second beat of each measure. The G major chord is also a very common chord in general, and it is used in many other popular songs. If you are a guitarist, it is important to be able to play the G major chord so that you can play this popular Christmas carol and many other songs.
| Chord | Diagram |
|---|---|
| C major | [x32010] |
| G major | [320003] |
| F major | [133211] |
| Am | [002210] |
3. F major
The F major chord is used less frequently than the C and G chords in “Away in a Manger,” but it adds a nice touch to the song by providing a contrasting sound. The F major chord is a major chord, like the C and G chords, but it has a brighter and more cheerful sound. This makes it a good choice for the chorus of the song, which is a more upbeat and celebratory section.
- Role of the F major chord: The F major chord provides a contrasting sound to the C and G chords, and it helps to create a more dynamic and interesting song.
- Examples: The F major chord is also used in many other popular songs, such as “You Are My Sunshine,” “Lean on Me,” and “Hey Jude.”
- Implications for guitarists: If you are a guitarist, it is important to be able to play the F major chord. It is a common chord that is used in many different songs, and it can add a nice touch to your playing.
In conclusion, the F major chord is used less frequently than the C and G chords in “Away in a Manger,” but it adds a nice touch to the song by providing a contrasting sound. If you are a guitarist, it is important to be able to play the F major chord so that you can play this popular Christmas carol and many other songs.
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4. Am
In the context of “guitar chords for away in a manger,” the Am chord plays a crucial role in creating depth and emotional resonance within the song’s harmonic structure.
- Contrast and Balance: The Am chord, being a minor chord, provides a contrasting element to the predominantly major chords (C, G, and F) used throughout the song. This contrast adds depth and interest to the chord progression, preventing it from becoming monotonous.
- Emotional Expression: Minor chords often evoke feelings of sadness, introspection, or nostalgia. The Am chord in “Away in a Manger” subtly introduces a touch of these emotions, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the song and capturing the tender and reflective nature of the lyrics.
- Resolution and Closure: The Am chord is frequently used as a transitional chord, leading back to the C major chord, which provides a sense of resolution and closure. In “Away in a Manger,” this transition occurs at the end of each verse, creating a satisfying and cohesive musical experience.
- Harmonic Embellishment: While not strictly necessary for the basic accompaniment of the song, the Am chord can be incorporated as an embellishment or variation to add harmonic interest. Skilled guitarists may choose to incorporate the Am chord as a passing chord or within arpeggiated patterns to enhance the overall musicality.
In conclusion, the Am chord in “guitar chords for away in a manger” serves multiple purposes, including creating contrast, evoking emotions, providing resolution, and enhancing harmonic interest. Its inclusion adds depth and nuance to the song’s overall musical tapestry.
5. Downstrokes
In the context of “guitar chords for away in a manger,” the strumming pattern plays a crucial role in establishing the song’s rhythmic foundation and driving its melodic progression.
- Simplicity and Accessibility: The predominantly downstroke strumming pattern used in “Away in a Manger” makes it an accessible song for beginners to learn. Downstrokes are the most basic strumming technique, involving a downward motion of the picking hand across the strings. This simplicity allows guitarists of all skill levels to accompany the song effectively.
- Driving Rhythm: The repetitive nature of the downstrokes creates a steady and driving rhythm that propels the song forward. This rhythmic pulse provides a strong foundation for the melody and lyrics, enhancing their impact and memorability.
- Expressive Potential: While primarily downstrokes, the strumming pattern in “Away in a Manger” also incorporates occasional upstrokes for emphasis and variation. These upstrokes can be used to highlight specific lyrics or create a sense of syncopation, adding depth and interest to the overall performance.
- Connection to Traditional Folk Music: The use of downstrokes in “Away in a Manger” reflects its roots in traditional folk music. Many folk songs feature simple strumming patterns that emphasize the lyrics and storytelling elements, and “Away in a Manger” is no exception. The downstrokes provide a familiar and comforting rhythmic backdrop for the song’s heartwarming message.
In conclusion, the strumming pattern for “Away in a Manger,” characterized by its predominantly downstrokes, contributes significantly to the song’s accessibility, rhythmic drive, expressive potential, and connection to traditional folk music. Understanding this strumming pattern is essential for guitarists who wish to perform the song authentically and effectively.
6. Upstrokes
In the context of “guitar chords for away in a manger,” the use of upstrokes, although less frequent than downstrokes, plays a subtle yet significant role in enhancing the song’s musicality and rhythmic interest.
Contrast and Embellishment: The occasional upstrokes serve as a contrast to the predominantly downstroke strumming pattern, adding a touch of variation and preventing monotony. These upstrokes can be used to emphasize certain lyrics or melodic phrases, creating a sense of anticipation and release.
Syncopation and Groove: The strategic placement of upstrokes can create syncopated rhythms, adding a subtle groove to the song. This syncopation helps to keep the listener engaged and adds a touch of complexity to the otherwise straightforward strumming pattern.
Dynamic Expression: Upstrokes can be used to create dynamic variations within the song. By varying the force and timing of the upstrokes, guitarists can add subtle nuances to their performance, enhancing the emotional impact of the music.
Connection to Traditional Folk Music: The incorporation of upstrokes in “Away in a Manger” reflects its roots in traditional folk music. Folk songs often feature a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes, creating a lively and engaging rhythmic feel. The use of upstrokes in this context adds authenticity and helps to capture the spirit of the genre.
7. Easy to learn
The simplicity of the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” makes it an accessible and rewarding song for beginners. The chords used in the song are all basic open chords, which require only a few fingers to play. This makes them easy to learn and remember, even for those with little or no prior guitar experience.
- Use of Basic Open Chords: The song primarily uses C, G, F, and Am chords, all of which are fundamental open chords commonly taught to beginners. These chords are easy to finger and transition between, making them suitable for players of all levels.
- Slow Tempo and Simple Rhythm: The song has a slow tempo and a straightforward strumming pattern. This allows beginners to focus on learning the chords without having to worry about complex rhythms or fast fingerpicking.
- Widely Available Resources: Numerous online tutorials, videos, and chord charts are available for “Away in a Manger,” making it easy for beginners to find guidance and support in learning the song.
- Motivating and Rewarding: Learning to play “Away in a Manger” can be a motivating experience for beginners. The song’s familiar melody and simple chords provide a sense of accomplishment and encourage further musical exploration.
In summary, the easy-to-learn guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” make it an ideal choice for beginner guitarists. Its use of basic open chords, slow tempo, and widely available resources contribute to its accessibility and appeal for those starting their musical journey.
8. Beautiful melody
The connection between the beautiful melody of “Away in a Manger” and the guita
r chords that accompany it is undeniable. The simplicity and beauty of the melody make it a perfect fit for the basic yet effective chord progression used in the song.
The C, G, F, and Am chords used in “Away in a Manger” are all open chords, which means they can be played with just a few fingers. This makes them easy to learn and play, even for beginners. The chord progression is also very straightforward, making it easy to follow along and strum.
The combination of the simple melody and easy-to-play chords makes “Away in a Manger” a great song for beginners to learn. It is also a popular choice for sing-alongs and caroling, as it is easy to sing and play.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points about the connection between the beautiful melody and guitar chords of “Away in a Manger”:
| Beautiful Melody | Guitar Chords | |
|---|---|---|
| Simplicity | The melody is simple and easy to sing. | The chords are all open chords, making them easy to play. |
| Beauty | The melody is beautiful and heartwarming. | The chords provide a simple but effective harmonic accompaniment. |
| Accessibility | The melody is accessible to singers of all levels. | The chords are accessible to guitarists of all levels. |
| Versatility | The melody can be sung in a variety of ways. | The chords can be played in a variety of ways to create different sounds. |
9. Christmas classic
The enduring popularity of “Away in a Manger” as a Christmas classic is intricately linked to the guitar chords that accompany it, fostering a harmonious union between melody and accompaniment.
- Nostalgic Charm:
The familiar chords of “Away in a Manger” evoke a sense of nostalgia and childhood memories for many people. The simplicity and beauty of the melody, coupled with the easy-to-play chords, make it a beloved song that has been passed down through generations. - Cross-generational Appeal:
The appeal of “Away in a Manger” transcends age barriers. Its simple yet poignant lyrics and accessible guitar chords resonate with people of all ages. Whether sung by children in school choirs or performed by adults in church services, the song’s timeless charm continues to captivate. - Versatile Arrangements:
The versatility of the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” allows for a wide range of arrangements. From traditional fingerpicking styles to more contemporary strumming patterns, guitarists can adapt the song to their unique playing styles and preferences. This versatility contributes to the song’s enduring popularity and adaptability to different musical settings. - Cultural Significance:
As a Christmas classic, “Away in a Manger” holds cultural significance for many people around the world. The song’s message of hope, peace, and the birth of Jesus Christ resonates deeply with those celebrating the holiday season. The guitar chords provide a musical foundation that enhances the song’s emotional impact and reinforces its cultural relevance.
In conclusion, the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” play a vital role in the song’s enduring popularity and cross-generational appeal. Their simplicity, versatility, and nostalgic charm make it a beloved Christmas classic that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
10. Great for beginners
The connection between the beginner-friendly nature of “Away in a Manger’s” guitar chords and the song’s overall accessibility is crucial in understanding its appeal to novice guitarists.
Firstly, the simplicity of the chords used in “Away in a Manger” makes it an ideal choice for beginners. The song primarily utilizes open chords, which can be played with just a few fingers, reducing the technical difficulty for new learners.
Secondly, the song’s slow tempo and straightforward chord progression allow beginners to focus on developing their strumming and fingerpicking skills without feeling overwhelmed. The repetitive nature of the chords also aids in memorization, making it easier for beginners to play the song confidently.
Moreover, the cheerful and familiar melody of “Away in a Manger” adds to its appeal for beginners. The song’s positive and uplifting message resonates with people of all ages, making it a fun and rewarding song to learn.
In summary, the beginner-friendly guitar chords and the song’s overall accessibility make “Away in a Manger” a great choice for novice guitarists. Its simplicity, slow tempo, and cheerful melody provide a solid foundation for beginners to develop their guitar skills and experience the joy of playing music.
| Characteristic | Significance for Beginners |
|---|---|
Use of open chords | Simplifies finger placement and reduces technical difficulty. |
Slow tempo and straightforward chord progression | Allows beginners to focus on developing their strumming and fingerpicking skills. |
Cheerful and familiar melody | Makes learning and playing the song enjoyable and rewarding. |
11. Versatile
The versatility of the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” stems from their simplicity and commonality. The chords used in the song C, G, F, and Am are fundamental open chords that appear in numerous other popular songs across various genres.
This versatility makes these chords a valuable asset for guitarists, as they can be easily adapted to accompany a wide range of melodies. For instance, the same chord progression can be used to play songs like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” “Happy Birthday,” and “You Are My Sunshine.” This interchangeability allows guitarists to expand their repertoire without having to learn entirely new chord shapes.
Furthermore, the simplicity of these chords makes them accessible to guitarists of all skill levels. Beginners can quickly learn these chords and start playing basic songs, while more experienced guitarists can use them as a foundation for improvisation and creating their own chord progressions. This versatility and accessibility make the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” a valuable addition to any guitarist’s toolkit.
Here is a table summarizing the key points about the connection between the versatility of the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” and their significance:
| Characteristic | Significance |
|---|---|
Use of common open chords | Easily transferable to other songs with similar chord progressions. |
Simplicity and accessibility | Suitable for guitarists of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players. |
Foundation for improvisation and creativity td> | Allows guitarists to experiment with different chord combinations and create their own unique arrangements. |
FAQs
This section addresses frequently asked questions related to the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger,” providing clear and informative answers to common concerns or misconceptions.
Question 1: What is the difficulty level of the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger”?
Answer: The guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” are relatively easy to learn, making them suitable for beginners. The song primarily uses open chords (C, G, F, and Am), which are among the most basic and commonly used chords in guitar playing.
Question 2: Can the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” be used to play other songs?
Answer: Yes, the chords used in “Away in a Manger” are versatile and can be applied to various other songs. The C, G, F, and Am chords are fundamental open chords that frequently appear in popular music across different genres, making them a valuable addition to any guitarist’s repertoire.
Question 3: Is it necessary to learn advanced guitar techniques to play “Away in a Manger”?
Answer: No, advanced guitar techniques are not required for “Away in a Manger.” The song’s chord progression and strumming pattern are straightforward, allowing beginners to play it with basic guitar skills.
Question 4: What is the recommended strumming pattern for “Away in a Manger”?
Answer: The most common strumming pattern for “Away in a Manger” is a simple down-down-down-up-down-up pattern. This pattern is easy to master and complements the song’s gentle and heartwarming melody.
Question 5: Can “Away in a Manger” be played on different types of guitars?
Answer: Yes, “Away in a Manger” can be played on various types of guitars, including acoustic, electric, and classical guitars. The choice of guitar is a matter of personal preference and the desired sound.
Question 6: Is prior musical knowledge or experience necessary to learn “Away in a Manger”?
Answer: While prior musical knowledge can be beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for learning “Away in a Manger.” The song’s simplicity makes it accessible to individuals with little to no guitar experience.
In conclusion, the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” offer an excellent starting point for guitarists of all levels, providing a straightforward and rewarding learning experience. The versatility of the chords and the song’s accessibility make it a valuable addition to any guitar player’s repertoire.
Transition to the next article section: For further exploration of guitar techniques and music theory, please refer to our comprehensive articles and tutorials.
Guitar Chords for “Away in a Manger” Tips
Mastering the guitar chords for “Away in a Manger” can enhance your playing skills and bring joy to your holiday celebrations. Here are some valuable tips to guide you:
Tip 1: Start with the Basics: Begin by practicing the fundamental open chords used in the song, namely C, G, F, and Am. Focus on forming the chords correctly and transitioning smoothly between them.
Tip 2: Focus on Accuracy: While strumming, prioritize accuracy over speed. Maintain a steady rhythm and ensure each chord change is clean and precise. This will improve your overall quality.
Tip 3: Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial for developing muscle memory and improving your coordination. Dedicate time each day to practice the chords and strumming pattern.
Tip 4: Use a Metronome: A metronome can help you maintain a steady tempo and improve your timing. Start with a slow tempo and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable.
Tip 5: Listen to Recordings: Listen attentively to recordings of “Away in a Manger” to familiarize yourself with the song’s melody and rhythm. This will aid you in developing a natural feel for the piece.
Tip 6: Explore Variations: Once you have mastered the basic chords, experiment with different strumming patterns and fingerpicking techniques to create your own unique interpretation of the song.
Tip 7: Use a Capo (Optional): Employing a capo can alter the pitch of the song, making it easier to play in different keys or to accommodate the vocal range of the singer.
Tip 8: Sing Along: Singing while playing can enhance your overall musicality and help you connect with the song’s message. Practice singing the lyrics while strumming the chords.
Incorporating these tips into your practice routine will significantly improve your ability to play “Away in a Manger” on the guitar. With patience, dedication, and a love for music, you will be able to confidently share this beloved Christmas carol with others.
Remember to approach your learning journey with enthusiasm and a willingness to embrace the nuances of the guitar. Your efforts will be rewarded with the ability to create beautiful music that brings joy to yourself and those around you.
Conclusion
In exploring the intricacies of “guitar chords for away in a manger,” we have embarked on a musical journey that unveils the beauty and accessibility of this beloved Christmas carol. The simplicity of the chords, the gentle strumming pattern, and the timeless melody combine to create a piece that resonates with people of all ages and skill levels.
Playing “Away in a Manger” on the guitar not only brings the joy of music-making into our lives but also connects us to a shared cultural heritage. Through the act of playing and singing this carol, we honor tradition, spread festive cheer, and create lasting memories. As we embrace the spirit of the season, let us continue to explore the power of music and the joy it brings to our world.
