Away in a Manger guitar chords
A gentle 1885 carol in three-beat time.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 3/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D, Em
Why this song is worth learning
A lullaby in three-time, which gives it a rocking feel. A bass note on beat one with strums on beats two and three is the classic pattern for waltz-time songs.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| C | x 3 2 0 1 0 |
| D | x x 0 2 3 2 |
| Em | 0 2 2 0 0 0 |
x means do not play that string, 0 means play it open. Tap any shape on the page to hear it.
Play along
Press play. The track counts you in, clicks the beat and lights up the chord you should be holding. Drop the tempo while you are learning and raise it once you can get through without stopping.
Chord order
| Verse | G | G | C | G | G | D | G | G |
|---|---|
| Verse 2 | G | C | G | Em | C | D | G | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 3 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
Bass - strum - strum (soft)
D is a down-strum and U is an up-strum. If the pattern feels like too much at first, play one down-strum per bar until the chord changes are comfortable, then add the rest.
How to learn it
- Learn G, C and D, then Em.
- Play one bass note on beat one of each bar, then strum on beats two and three.
- Count one-two-three out loud for the first verse.
- Play softly at 96 beats per minute; the song sounds best quiet.
Tips that matter
- Pick the bass with your thumb. Use the low root of each chord, and keep the strum on the top strings.
- Keep the three even. The bar should feel like one steady ride, not a bass note and a rush.
Questions about Away in a Manger
What chords are in Away in a Manger?
G, C, D and Em, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Away in a Manger in?
3/4, with three beats per bar, a waltz feel. It is rated Easy.
How fast should I practise it?
The play-along is set to 96 beats per minute. Start slower while you learn the changes, then raise the tempo in small steps once you can play through without stopping.
Is Away in a Manger free to learn and share?
Yes. First published in 1885 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.