Wednesdays, 8:15-9:30 pm, beginning September 11
$120.00 advance / $130.00 after September 2
Register online

(No class Oct. 2. There will be a make-up class on Oct 23.)

Do you long to envelope yourself in a velvety sound with gorgeous melodies, exquisite harmonies, and wonderful rhythms that make your heart race with excitement? Come to the music of Brazil! We’ll discuss the history and roots of the bossa nova, and its impact on music all over the world.

This class is open to everyone – singers, instrumentalists, music lovers, and anyone who would like to learn more of these fantastic tunes. No music reading is required.

We will dive into some of the well-known classic tunes (One Note Samba, Girl from Ipanema, Manhã do Carnaval, etc) written by composers Antonio Carlos Jobim and Luis Bonfa. Plus we will work on many other tunes and composers that you might not necessarily know. Here’s a partial tune list: Madelena (Ivan Lins), Mas Que Nada (Jorge Ben), O Cantador (Dori Caymmi), Dindi, The Island, Velas, and so many others!

We’ll be singing in English and/or Portuguese. There will be opportunities to write your own lyrics if you like.

Ellen will provide lyric sheets for all, plus written music for any instrumentalist who wants to play. Bring your instruments – including guitar, small hand percussion, etc.

Ellen Hoffman has extensive background & experience performing, writing and teaching in various musical styles. She performs her own music with Oakland East Bay Symphony; she plays piano for Jazz Open Mics at Berkeley City Club and at the Freight. Former pianist with Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, and former music director of Berkeley Broadway Singers, Ellen co-founded and directed Jazz Camp West. She plays 19th century music at the Great Dickens Fair (No major 7th chords are allowed!) She loves teaching, inspiring and challenging students of all ages and all musical backgrounds.

Visit Ellen's website