Bossa Nova Piano Lessons

On this page you can find a selection of Bossa Nova jazz standards tutorials & Bossa Nova theory lessons. The beginner lessons cover the basic theory and introduce you to the Bossa Nova style. We then apply this theory in context of the most well-known Bossa Nova tunes.

Bossa Nova For Beginners

In terms of harmonic structure, Bossa Nova has a lot common with jazz music as both share a sophisticated use of seventh and extended chords.

Bossa NovaChords

Bossa Nova & 251s

  • 11:55

251s feature heavily in Bossa Nova music and so it’s a good idea to learn to play both major and minor 251 progressions with a Bossa Nova groove.

Bossa NovaChords

Blue Bossa Tutorial Part 1

  • 10:58

When starting out playing Bossa Nova standards, it’s a good idea to separate and isolate the different elements that make up a Bossa Nova groove.

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Blue Bossa Tutorial Part 2

  • 12:53

A very important point is that it’s not absolutely necessary to play all of these elements concurrently throughout the performance.

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Blue Bossa Tutorial Part 3

  • 13:21

In Part 3 we will add ornamentation to the melody, creating much more melodic interest and a nice climax towards the end of the tune.

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How Insensitive Part 1

  • 11:41

‘How Insensitive’ is a well-known tune written by Antonio Jobim who was one of the main exponents of the Bossa Nova movement in 1950s Brazil.

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How Insensitive Part 2

  • 13:34

In part 2, we are going to enhance the melody and add some rhythmic devices into our left hand to introduce the Bossa Nova feel and groove.

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How Insensitive Part 3

  • 16:24

In this section of the tutorial, we will play all of the elements of Bossa Nova which is the bass line, syncopated chords, and finally the melody on top.

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