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Common Two-Measure Patterns

By Carlos "Charly" Arana

Bossa Nova often uses two-measure patterns, crafted from a virtually unlimited combination of rhythm cells. In this lesson, I’ll show you several
of the most commonly played bossa nova patterns, in their most basic form. Accompanying each example is its rhythm-cell makeup and its
graphic representation. Note the use of staccato markings to indicate where chords should be muted. On the tracks, I will first play the version
without the muted notes, in measures 1 and 2, and then play the version with them, in measures 3 and 4.