Beautiful Star of Bethlehem

This is an online fiddle lesson for the Christmas carol "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem."

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Genre: Holiday, Gospel
Skill Level: Beginner
Keys of D and C

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Video #1: Here is a video of my daughters and me performing the Christmas carol "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem."

“Beautiful Star of Bethlehem” is a popular Christmas song, particularly in the country and bluegrass genres.  There seems to be some debate as to the actual author of this lovely hymn.  It would seem that three different men (R. Fisher Boyce, Adger M. Pace and Arthur L. Phipps) are credited with writing and arranging the song.  The song was first published in 1940 by the Vaughan Company and was printed in the company's song-book, "Beautiful Praise".  The Vaughan Company gives both R. Fisher Boyce and Adger M. Pace credit for the song.  The following link is an interesting story about the history of this beloved Christmas hymn: Old-Time Times.

Beautiful Star Of Bethlehem (Chords and Lyrics)
             D             D7
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem
         C                   D
Shining afar through shadows dim
           D                   Bm        A    E  A
Giving the light for those who long have gone
            D                 D7
Guiding the wise men on their way
         G                 D
Unto the place where Jesus lay
             D             E   A7    D   G  D
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem shine on.

Refrain:
             D A D         D G D
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem
           D            Bm    A  E  A
Shine upon us until the glory dawns.
          D                  D7
Give us a light to guide the way
         G               D
Unto the land of perfect day
             D             E    A     D  G  D
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem, shine on

Oh Beautiful Star the hope of light
Guiding the pilgrims through the night
Over the mountains till the break of dawn
Into the light of perfect day
It will give out a lovely ray
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem shine on 

Oh Beautiful Star the hope of rest
For the redeemed the good and blessed
Yonder in glory when the crown is won
Jesus is now the star divine
Brighter and brighter he will shine
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem shine on