Song Tabs

 Pentatonix’s version of "Mary Did You Know" is well-loved for its haunting, a cappella harmonies. When played on guitar, focus on a gentle, expressive style to match the song’s reflective mood.

Chord Progression and Transitions
The song uses a handful of chords: Bm, A, G, F#, D, and Em. For beginners, Bm and F# can be tricky as they are barre chords. Practice forming these shapes slowly, ensuring all notes ring clearly. If Bm is difficult, try a simplified version (e.g., x24432 or x20202 for Bm7 as a substitute).

Strumming Pattern
Keep the strumming delicate. A recommended pattern is slow downstrokes, or a “down, down, up, up, down, up” pattern at a soft dynamic. During verses, try a single downstroke per chord for a more dramatic effect, transitioning to gentle strumming in the chorus and bridge to build intensity.

Tips for Smooth Play
Pay attention to the chord changes between Bm and F#, as these happen frequently. Practice moving between these two chords until it feels natural. For the intro, you can arpeggiate the chords (pluck strings individually) for a more emotive sound.

Overall, focus on a smooth, flowing pace, and let the melody guide your dynamics. Play slowly at first, increasing speed as you gain confidence with the chord shapes and transitions.