Brazilian Guitar Lessons - Learn Samba & Bossa Nova Guitar

Master the Pulse of Brazilian Guitar

Brazilian guitar isn’t just a style—it’s a conversation between rhythm, harmony, and soul. The syncopated drive of samba, the effortless elegance of bossa nova, the deep swing of choro—these aren’t just techniques, they’re traditions that have shaped generations of musicians.

In this course, acclaimed guitarist Rafael Valim breaks down the core techniques that define Brazilian guitar. You’ll go beyond the surface, mastering the rhythmic fire of samba, the harmonic richness of bossa nova, and the intricate fingerstyle phrasing that makes this music so expressive.

This isn’t about memorizing licks. It’s about developing the groove, the feel, the deep understanding that allows you to play Brazilian music with authenticity and confidence. Along the way, you’ll gain cultural insight, practical skills, and the ability to weave these techniques into your own playing—whether you’re backing a band, composing, or improvising.

If you want to expand your rhythmic vocabulary, refine your harmonic approach, and unlock the heartbeat of Brazilian music, this course is for you.

Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Develop a Strong Rhythmic Foundation

Master the samba clave and its role in shaping Brazilian rhythm.
Apply right-hand strumming techniques for authentic samba and bossa nova grooves.
Use left-hand muting to enhance rhythmic drive and dynamic expression.

Play Essential Brazilian Guitar Styles

Accompany samba with moving bass lines and syncopated chords.
Perform bossa nova with smooth, jazz-influenced voicings and rhythmic subtlety.
Explore samba sub-genres, including samba de roda, partido alto, and choro.

Expand Your Harmonic & Melodic Knowledge

Understand Brazilian chord voicings and substitutions.
Apply melodic bass movement to enrich harmonic textures.
Learn and perform pieces by Antônio Carlos Jobim, Garoto, and Baden Powell.

Perform Brazilian Repertoire with Confidence

Play classic bossa nova and samba standards, such as “Wave” and “Odeon.”
Adapt jazz standards like “Autumn Leaves” into a Brazilian groove.
Develop improvisational skills within Brazilian harmonic frameworks.

Understand the Cultural & Historical Context

Gain insight into the origins of samba and bossa nova and their social impact.
Explore the contributions of Brazilian guitar legends such as João Gilberto, Gilberto Gil, and Yamandu Costa.
Learn about the 7-string guitar tradition and its role in choro and samba.

Apply Brazilian Techniques to Your Own Music

Incorporate Brazilian grooves into jazz, pop, and world music settings.
Strengthen ensemble skills by understanding the guitar’s role in Brazilian rhythm sections.
Develop a personalized approach to Brazilian guitar that suits your playing style.

Sample Lessons

Meet Your Tutor: Rafael Valim

Rafael Valim is a Brazilian guitarist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist with deep expertise in the country’s diverse musical traditions. Born in São Paulo and now based in London, he has dedicated his career to mastering and teaching the intricate techniques of samba, bossa nova, choro, and beyond.

Beyond the guitar, Valim plays cavaquinho, mandolin, pandeiro, cuica, zabumba, and many other traditional Brazilian instruments, giving him a uniquely comprehensive perspective on Brazilian rhythm and harmony. His deep knowledge and ability to fuse traditional sounds with contemporary influences make him a sought-after musician and educator.

As a performer, Valim has worked with some of the biggest names in Brazilian music, including Karametade, and is frequently called upon to lead top-tier Brazilian ensembles in London. He has performed at major venues, including Hammersmith Apollo, The O2, and Ronnie Scott’s, bringing the authentic sounds of Brazil to audiences worldwide.

In this course, Valim shares his insider knowledge of Brazilian guitar traditions, providing students with the tools to play with authenticity, groove, and confidence. Whether you're new to Brazilian music or looking to refine your technique, his guidance will deepen your connection to this rich musical heritage.

The Ultimate Learning Experience

Brazilian Guitar Techniques

Learn how to play Samba and Bossa Nova on guitar whilst also understanding the complex rhythms which underpin Brazilian genres in this 1 hour 15 minute course taught by Rafael Valim.

Interactive On-screen Notation

Learning new skills is easier with our innovative, interactive tools. Access on-screen notation, tablature, animated fretboard diagrams, variable tempos, and more today.