Carol of the Bells Chords

Amtap to play
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
Am · E · Dm

Carol of the Bells Chords – Guitar

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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Am · E · Dm

Carol of the Bells Chords – Ukulele

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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Am · E · Dm

Carol of the Bells Chords – Piano

Amtap to play
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Am · E · Dm

Carol of the Bells Chords – Banjo

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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Am · E · Dm

Carol of the Bells Chords – Mandolin

Amtap to play
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Am · E · Dm

Carol of the Bells Chords – Harmonica

The dramatic Ukrainian Christmas carol with its iconic four-note motif. Intermediate difficulty in the key of Em.

Chords used: Am, E, Dm  ·  Key: A  ·  Difficulty: Intermediate  ·  More 3-chord songs →

Dramatic Minor (3/4 Time)
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Tip: This song has a relentless, driving feel in 3/4 time. The four-note repeating motif should be played with precision and building intensity.

Chords & Structure

Full Song

Verse 1

 
Em
Am
Em
B7 – Em
 

Verse 2

 
Em
Am
Em
B7 – Em
 

Chorus

 
Am
Em
Am
B7 – Em
 

Verse 3

 
Em
Am
Em
B7 – Em
 

Final Chorus

 
Am – Em – Am – B7
Em – Am
Em – B7
Em
 

Practice tip: The Em-Am-B7 progression drives the entire song. The 3/4 time signature gives it urgency. Practice the B7 to Em resolution — it’s the dramatic “landing” point at the end of each section.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Carol of the Bells"?

You need 3 intermediate-friendly chords: Am, E and Dm.

Is "Carol of the Bells" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated intermediate and uses only 3 chords in the key of A, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Carol of the Bells" in?

It is in the key of A.

Who wrote "Carol of the Bells"?

It was written by Mykola Leontovych.