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Here are few example rhythmic patterns to get the essence the Bossa Nova style.
The rhythmic part of the Bossa Nova style is a mixture of Levels I, II and IIR of the Modular Phonetic Rhythm System by Chuck Anderson. This is the system I use with GREAT results.
Pattern One
Two quarter notes followed an eighth, dotted quarter note.
As Bossa Nova draws from a fusion of samba and jazz. With a rich harmonic structure of 4-part chords with upper partials, extensions and altered chords. I used a C6/9 chord for the example.
The hear the difference try it with an open position C chord, the first chord most ukulele player learn.
1-1 2-2
1 2 3 4
Pattern Two
1-1 2-2
1 2 3 4
Bossa Nova patterns can be played with rests interspersed in the mix as I played in the example videos.
Patterns One and Two
A the clave for a Bossa Nova is a two bar patter it is good to have two bar pattern.
First Eight Bars of The Girl From Ipanema - C
First Eight Bars of The Girl From Ipanema - Db
Db is lays pretty nice on the ukulele, especially with a low G, C tuning. It's a nice mysterious and dark key. Close to the feeling to the original vocal key in Ab of the original of 1964 Grammy Award for Record of the Year that started Astrud Gilberto's career.
Related Lessons, Videos, Lesson Series, Songs, Books & Reference Charts, Resources & Assets, Workshops are below.
Example Bossa Nova Patterns.
Example Bossa Nova Patterns.

Modular Phonetic Rhythm represents a significant advance in the teaching and application of rhythm. Eliminating many inefficient aspects of rhythm education, Modular Phonetic Rhythm streamlines the traditional educational approach, resulting in a reflexive reaction to rhythm.

Finally, learn the names of the notes of the ukulele fingerboard in C tuning .

Learn the six fingering principles to navigating the ukulele fingerboard. Fingering is one of the most universal topics. Book: Six Secrets of the Ukulele Fingering

Harmonic Analysis is the understanding of the functional sequence of chords. It is the process used to analyze the harmonic structure of a progression, song or composition. Book: Harmonic Analysis for Scale Selection and Chord Substitution

Learn to read single note melodies in the first/open position is a lot easier than you might think. Book: Ukulele – Reading Music Series – Primer

An organized collection of daily practice and reference material for the contemporary ukulele player for developing the vocabulary and knowledge necessary for single note playing. Book: Daily Practice Material for the Contemporary Ukulele
Checkout the Books & Reference Charts for additional Handy, Dandy Reference Charts.

Ukulele Fingerboard Chart for C Tuning, Low or High G – G C E A

Ukulele Fingerboard Chart for G Tuning, Low or High A – D G B E

A handy reference chart of all 15 major and relative minor key signatures. US Letter 8.5 x 11 sized (ANSI-A) , A4
Checkout the Books & Reference Charts for additional Handy, Dandy Reference Charts.