The Basic Samba Pattern
On the guitar, the right hand patterns are basically simulations of a samba ensemble rhythm section. Notice that the syncopation is usually done with the right hand fingers 1, 2, and 3 (playing the top voices of the chord), while the bass note (played with the right hand thumb), comes on the beat.
The bass line keeps switching between the root and the fifth of the chord, and it's a better choice to play the fifth below the root. If the bass note is already placed on the 6th string, you may keep the same note for the whole measure.
You can practice these patterns and variations muting the strings with your left hand. Try using 6(9) and minor 9 chords, II-V progressions or turnarounds.
It's also a good idea to practice away from your guitar, clapping hands on the high voices and tapping the low voices with your foot.
This example applies the basic samba pattern to a typical samba progression consisting of:
G(add9) - G(#5 add9) - G(6 add 9) - G(#5 add 9).
© 1999 by Sher Music Co..
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