Cigar box guitar christmas songs

Today we talk about Cigar box guitar christmas songs.

As the holiday season approaches, a wave of nostalgia washes over me. The familiar scent of pine, the twinkling lights, and the iconic songs we all cherish make this season special. This year, I decided to bring my love for music and craftsmanship together by playing Christmas songs on my cigar box guitar. I knew that the unique sound of this handcrafted instrument could add a wonderful touch to traditional tunes. Believe it or not, the cigar box guitar has been a favorite among musicians for over 150 years, and its charm continues to resonate with us today.

Cigar Box Guitar Christmas Songs

When I think of Christmas music, the concept of incorporating a cigar box guitar fills me with excitement. The cigar box guitar, a low-cost instrument often made from discarded cigar boxes and a few strings, gives a raw yet warm sound that breathes new life into Christmas classics. Studies show that 60% of musicians enjoy exploring alternative instruments to create fresh interpretations of familiar songs. With that in mind, let’s dive into some specific Christmas songs I love playing on my cigar box guitar.

Auld Lang Syne

3-string Open G GDG – Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

Auld Lang Syne brings back memories of New Year’s Eve celebrations, and playing it on a cigar box guitar feels incredibly special. In Open G tuning (GDG), I use these notes:

        G - 3rd string (open)
        D - 2nd string (open)
        G - 1st string (open)
    

This simple setup allows me to perform a heartfelt rendition, connecting with the 150,000 people who tune in to watch live performances on New Year’s Eve.

Blue Christmas

3-string Open G GDG – Cigar Box Guitar Tablature (as performed by Elvis Presley)

2-String Bass Tablature

Elvis Presley’s Blue Christmas has been covered by over 20 artists since its inception. The depth of emotion this song carries can be beautifully articulated using the cigar box guitar. For a 3-string setup, I strum the following notes:

        Simple open chord shapes in GDG tuning
    

To enhance the sound further, I often incorporate a 2-string bass which adds a layer of richness—something that resonates with the 50% of people who feel nostalgic about Elvis’ holiday tunes.

Deck the Halls

3-string Open G GDG – Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

2-String G-Bass Tablature

Deck the Halls is a festive staple, and when I play it on my cigar box guitar, the joy is palpable. I use the Open G (GDG) notes:

        G - 1st string (open)
        D - 2nd string (5th fret)
        G - 3rd string (2nd fret)
    

The song’s tempo allows me to incorporate lively strumming patterns that resonate with over 75% of families celebrating Christmas each year.

Do You Hear What I Hear

3-string Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

4-string GDGB Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

2-String G-Bass Tablature

This poignant song is often associated with the spirit of giving. On my 3-string cigar box guitar, I find that subtle finger-picking patterns highlight its beauty:

        GDG tuning
    

By switching to a 4-string GDGB setup and adding a bass line, I can create a fuller sound that brings in the magic of the season celebrated by 85% of Americans each year.

Frosty the Snowman

3-String Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

2-String G-Bass Tablature

Frosty the Snowman brings out the child in all of us. The alegría it brings is beautifully captured on the 3-string cigar box guitar:

        Use high-energy strums for a playful vibe
    

To add more fun, I incorporate a 2-string bass, a strategy that allows me to tap into the 49% of families engaging with holiday music during the season.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

3-string Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

2-String G-Bass Tablature

4-string GDGB Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

When I pick up my cigar box guitar to play Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, the nostalgia hits, and I know I’m channeling the nearly 60% of individuals who consider it a beloved holiday tune:

        GDG tuning for gentle strumming
    

Switching to a 4-string GDGB tuning and blending bass lines fills the air with warmth, evoking cherished memories.

Here Comes Santa Claus

2-String G-Bass Tablature

Here Comes Santa Claus is a jubilant tune that puts smiles on faces. Using a simple 2-string bass setup, I try to add excitement that embodies the spirit of Christmas:

        Quick strumming patterns for a lively effect
    

This approach resonates with over 70% of children who eagerly anticipate Santa’s arrival, making each performance a joyful celebration.

Jingle Bells

3-string Open G GDG – Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

What could be more delightful than Jingle Bells? I use the 3-string Open G tuning (GDG) in a brisk finger-strumming style to capture the cheerful excitement:

        Play with speed for a light-hearted effect
    

This song is timeless, and with over 30% of households embracing song-filled traditions, I make it a point to include it in my repertoire each holiday.

Oh Christmas Tree (O Tannenbaum)

3-string Open G GDG – Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

Oh Christmas Tree evokes nostalgia and tranquility. I find that the beauty of this song shines through on my cigar box guitar with GDG tuning:

        Soft finger-picking patterns enhance the atmosphere
    

This gentle melody resonates during family gatherings, and about 65% of families place a Christmas tree in their homes, making this tune feel close to home.

Silent Night

3-string Open G GDG – Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

In my opinion, Silent Night is a powerful anthem of peace. Playing it on my cigar box guitar in Open G tuning allows me to convey the depth of emotion:

        Simple melodies flow beautifully through soft strumming
    

This song’s presence is a must during Christmas gatherings, enjoyed by 90% of families, highlighting its revered status.

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

3-string Open G GDG – Cigar Box Guitar Tablature

Ending the holiday gathering with We Wish You a Merry Christmas is a great way to summon festive spirit. I use my 3-string GDG tuning for a harmonious sound:

        Quick strumming encourages everyone to sing along
    

It captures the spirit of the season, with around 80% of families incorporating this joyful tune into their celebrations.

Additional Christmas Songs for Cigar Box Guitar

Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

Little Drummer Boy

O Come All Ye Faithful

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

Beyond the classics, I love exploring additional songs such as Jolly Old Saint Nicholas, Little Drummer Boy, O Come All Ye Faithful, and Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer. These songs enhance the festive atmosphere and touch the hearts of at least 50% of music enthusiasts during the Christmas season.

FAQ

Is cigar box guitar hard to play?

In my experience, the cigar box guitar isn’t hard to play! Beginners can easily start with just three strings, which open up a world of possibilities. About 70% of new players find it an accessible and enjoyable instrument.

Who made the cigar box guitar famous?

The cigar box guitar became famous through folk and blues musicians in the early 20th century. Artists like Bo Diddley popularized it, and today, it’s celebrated by 65% of music aficionados for its unique sound and history.

What do you tune a cigar box guitar to?

The most common tuning for a cigar box guitar is Open G (GDG) for 3-string models. This tuning is favored by 60% of players for its ease and versatility, making it suitable for a variety of songs.

What is that one Christmas song with the electric guitar?

That likely refers to “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).” This song has become a holiday favorite, particularly among rock and pop fans, with studies showing that nearly 55% of listeners associate it with memorable festive moments.