The Definitive Method for Learning Brazilian Guitar
The Brazilian Guitar Book by Nelson Faria is the most complete and authoritative guide ever published on playing Brazilian guitar.
If you want to play Brazilian music authentically and truly understand the rhythmic, harmonic, and stylistic language of samba, bossa nova, baião, frevo, etc. — this book gives you the full system.
Brazilian guitar looks effortless, but it isn’t. The subtle right-hand pulse, the layered syncopation, the floating harmonic colors — these elements require precision and deep stylistic understanding. Nelson Faria breaks the tradition down clearly and systematically, guiding you toward fluency both as an accompanist and as a chord-melody soloist.
Inside you’ll find:
• Dozens of Brazilian styles explained and demonstrated
• Multiple variations of essential comping patterns
• Complete chord voicings written out clearly
• A tune in each style for practical application
• Short transcriptions of classic guitar parts recorded by Toninho Horta, João Bosco, and João Gilberto
• Plus transcriptions from Nelson’s own recordings
An audio download featuring Nelson performing every exercise and tune allows you to internalize the feel directly from a master.
This is not a collection of Brazilian grooves, it is a complete method for understanding how the guitar functions both rhythmically and harmonically inside the best Brazilian music - and how to play like that yourself.
Spiral-bound, 143 pages.
Sample Pages: Accompaniment in the Samba Style
Sample Track: Track #28
Endorsements:
“When I think about Brasil, I think about ‘Violao’ (that's what we call the nylon string guitar in our country). The art of playing ‘Violao’ looks simple, but it isn't and this book shows how to assimilate and how to understand this art. This makes me feel happy. With talent and clear information, Nelson will help guitar players all around the world to enjoy all the pleasures of this wonderful instrument. Make good use of this excellent musical book!”— Leny Andrade
“Nelson Faria was the right person to write this book, which contains examples and transcriptions of Brazil's greatest guitarists. This talented musician and dedicated music professor has a deep knowledge of Brazilian music and its rhythmic, melodic and harmonic subtleties.”
— Toninho Horta
“Nelson Faria's book is a welcome addition to the guitar literature. I'm sure those who work with this volume will benefit greatly.”
— Joe Diorio
Nelson Faria is one of Brazil’s foremost guitarists, arrangers, and educators. A prolific recording artist and producer, he has contributed to over 200 albums and collaborated with João Bosco, Ivan Lins, Milton Nascimento, and many others. With performances in more than 30 countries and multiple books, recordings, and educational releases to his name, he is a global ambassador of Brazilian guitar.
