“Away In A Manger (Intermediate Piano No. 4),” arranged by Polly Bekasova, is a gentle but more rhythmically active intermediate piano arrangement of the beloved Christmas carol. Marked Allegretto, this two-page, 45-measure arrangement begins with a clear melody supported by simple chordal accompaniment before developing into a much more active broken-note texture. The second half features flowing eighth-note patterns in both hands, giving the arrangement a more energetic character while still preserving the peaceful quality of the carol.

Measures 1–9 introduce the arrangement in 3/4 time with the melody clearly presented in the upper voice. The left hand provides chordal and bass support, while the right hand combines the melody with occasional moving notes. The opening requires careful balance so that the melody remains prominent without making the accompaniment too heavy.

Measures 10–18 continue the melody with a similar chordal texture. The right hand moves through the familiar tune while the left hand supplies alternating bass notes and chords. The repeated accompaniment pattern gives the music a steady pulse and allows the performer to concentrate on smooth phrasing and evenness.

Measures 19–23 bring the opening style to a transition point. The melody continues through longer and shorter note values while the accompaniment becomes slightly more active. These measures prepare for the major textural change beginning at measure 24.

Measures 24–28 introduce a significantly more active texture. Both hands begin using flowing eighth-note figures, with the right hand combining melodic material with moving patterns and the left hand supplying a continuously moving accompaniment. This creates a clear contrast with the sustained chordal writing of the first half.

Measures 29–36 develop the flowing eighth-note texture further. The right hand moves through repeated and descending patterns while the left hand supports the harmony with its own moving figures. The performer must maintain evenness in both hands while still bringing out the melodic line.

Measures 37–40 continue the active broken-note writing before beginning to prepare for the conclusion. The upper voice retains the melody while the lower part moves through supporting patterns. The texture remains energetic but should still feel lyrical rather than aggressive.

Measures 41–45 form the final section. The flowing accompaniment continues beneath the melody before the music moves into longer closing notes and chords. The final measures broaden the texture and resolve into a sustained final sonority, giving the arrangement a peaceful and complete ending.

Interesting fact: “Away in a Manger” was long associated with Martin Luther, but that attribution is now considered incorrect. The carol appears to have originated in the United States in the late nineteenth century. Early publications appeared in the 1880s, including an 1885 Lutheran children's songbook, and the familiar melody known as “Mueller” was published by James R. Murray in 1887.

There are actually two especially famous melodies associated with the carol. Murray's “Mueller” tune became particularly common in the United States, while William J. Kirkpatrick's “Cradle Song,” composed in 1895, became especially popular in Britain.