Assign your thumb to the E and A strings for bass notes and your index, middle, and ring fingers to the D, G, and B strings for the chords.

If you prefer (1 & 2 &...)

Master the Groove: Exclusive Bossa Nova Guitar Rhythm Pattern PDF Guide

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.

Before mastering the rhythm, you must understand the chord voicings. Bossa nova rarely uses standard major or minor triads. Instead, it relies on jazz harmonies like major 7ths, minor 7ths, dominant 9ths, and altered chords.

Ditch the plectrum. Bossa nova requires a flesh-and-nail fingerstyle approach to achieve its warm, intimate tone. Position your thumb (