D
A7
G
A
Away In A Manger
Traditional
Original Version Context
This traditional Christmas carol is often sung gently and at a moderate tempo. Its simplicity makes it ideal for beginner guitarists, especially since the melody is familiar and the chords are basic.
Chord Progression & Transitions
Chords Used: D, G, A, A7
All are open chords and beginner-friendly. Practice switching between D, G, and A/A7 smoothly, as these changes come up frequently.
- D to G: Move your index and middle fingers up one string each.
- G to D: Reverse the above.
- A to A7: Lift your middle finger for A7 while keeping your index and ring fingers in place.
Strumming Pattern
A soft, steady strumming pattern works best:
Down-down-up-up-down-up
Try to keep the rhythm gentle to match the lullaby feel.
Alternatively, for absolute beginners, simple downstrokes on each beat are effective.
Techniques & Tips
- Chord Transitions: Practice moving between D, G, A, and A7 slowly, aiming for clean, ringing notes.
- Tempo: Keep a slow to moderate pace; rushing will make transitions harder.
- Dynamics: Play softly throughout to preserve the gentle mood.
- Rest: Use the interludes to reset your fingers if needed.
Enjoy playing and singing along with this timeless carol!
Intro
D A7 D A7 D
Verse 1D Away in a manger, noG crib for aD bed
TheA little LordA7 Jesus laidG down his sweetD head
TheD stars in the bright sky lookedG down where HeD lay
TheA7 little LordD Jesus aA7 sleep on theD hay
InterludeD G D G
Verse 2D The cattle are lowing, theG poor babyD wakes
ButA little LordA7 Jesus noG crying heD makes
ID love the Lord Jesus, lookG down from theD sky
AndA7 stay by myD cradle 'tillA7 morning isD nigh
InterludeD G D G
Verse 3D Be near me Lord Jesus, IG ask Thee toD stay
CloseA by me forA7 ever, andG love me ID pray
BlessD all the dear Children inG thy tenderD care
AndA7 fit us forD heaven toA7 live with TheeD there
OutroD G D A A7 G D D G D A7 D A7 D