C
F
G7
D7
G
E7
Am
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
Sears/Willis
This traditional Christmas carol, with lyrics by Edmund Sears and melody by Richard Storrs Willis, is often performed in a gentle, flowing style. Its timeless melody and simple harmonies make it a favorite for both solo and group singalongs, and it is well-suited for beginner guitarists.
## Chords and Progression
The song uses mostly open chords: C, F, G, G7, D7, E7, and Am. If you’re new to F, try the easy F (xx3211) or use a partial barre. Practice moving between C and F, as this transition appears frequently. G7 is used instead of G in many spots; use your ring, middle, and index fingers for an efficient switch from C or F.
## Strumming Pattern
Aim for a gentle, steady strum. A common pattern is Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up (D-D-U-U-D-U), which fits the 4/4 time signature and gives a flowing feel. Beginners can simplify to all downstrokes if needed, especially when learning chord changes.
## Tips for Beginners
Practice the intro chords (C, F, G7, C) as a warm-up. Take each verse slowly, focusing on smooth transitions, particularly between C, F, and G7. For E7 and Am, keep your index finger anchored when possible to speed up transitions. If the song feels fast, slow down and build speed gradually.
Keep your strumming hand relaxed, and listen to traditional recordings for reference on tempo and dynamics. Enjoy playing and singing along!
Intro
C F G7 C
Verse 1It came upF on aC midnight clear, thatF gloriousD7 song ofG old.
FromC angelsF bendingC near the earth, toF touch theirG7 harps ofC gold.
"PeaceE7 on the earth, goodAm will to men, fromG heavens allD7 graciousG King!"
TheC world inF solemnC stillness lay, toF hear theG7 angelsC sing.
Verse 2Still through theF clovenC skies they come, withF peacefulD7 wings unG furled.
AndC still theirF heavenlyC music floats, o'erF all theG7 wearyC world.
AE7 bove its sad andAm lowly plains, theyG bend onD7 hoveringG wing.
AndC everF o'er itsC Babel sounds, theF blessedG7 angelsC sing.
Verse 3Oh ye beF neath life'sC crushing load, whoseF forms areD7 bendingG low.
WhoC toil aF long theC climbing way, withF painfulG7 steps andC slow.
LookE7 now for glad andAm golden hours. ComeG swiftlyD7 on theG wing.
OhC rest beF side theC weary road, andF hear theG7 angelsC sing.
Verse 4ForC lo theF days areC hastening on, byF prophetsD7 seen ofG old.
WhenC with theF everC circling years, shallF come theG7 time foreC told.
WhenE7 the new heaven andAm earth shall own, theG Prince ofD7 Peace theirG King.
And theC wholeF world sendC back the song, whichF now theG7 angelsC sing.