Bossa Nova, meaning "new trend" in Portuguese, blended Brazilian samba with American jazz in the late 1950s [1]. Pioneered by artists like João Gilberto, this genre relies on a distinct, hypnotic guitar rhythm [1].
While often written in 4/4 or cut-time for Western jazz standards, it is traditionally notated in 2/4. The Bass Line:
If a PDF lacks all five, it is likely a generic strumming chart dressed in beach clothes.
Did you find this article helpful? Leave a comment below with your biggest struggle regarding Bossa Nova rhythm, and we will add specific exercises to the next version of the PDF!
In standard 4/4 or 2/4 time, the thumb plays steady quarter notes on the 1 and 3 beats. For more movement, alternate the root note with the 5th of the chord.
Bossa Nova, meaning "new trend" in Portuguese, blended Brazilian samba with American jazz in the late 1950s [1]. Pioneered by artists like João Gilberto, this genre relies on a distinct, hypnotic guitar rhythm [1].
While often written in 4/4 or cut-time for Western jazz standards, it is traditionally notated in 2/4. The Bass Line:
If a PDF lacks all five, it is likely a generic strumming chart dressed in beach clothes.
Did you find this article helpful? Leave a comment below with your biggest struggle regarding Bossa Nova rhythm, and we will add specific exercises to the next version of the PDF!
In standard 4/4 or 2/4 time, the thumb plays steady quarter notes on the 1 and 3 beats. For more movement, alternate the root note with the 5th of the chord.
