Sundays Noon–1:30 pm, 9/27–12/6; No class 11/29; Performance: 12/12

RSVP / DETAILS

The music of Jacob do Bandolim, Pixinguinha, Ernesto Nazareth, and other influential Brazilian composers forms the foundation of this ensemble devoted to the choro tradition. Participants will work on the rhythmic feel, phrasing, harmony, and melodic language that define the style while developing ensemble skills in a traditional roda de choro setting, where musicians gather in a circle to play and interact.

The class emphasizes stylistic interpretation, rhythmic precision, melodic interplay, and the collaborative communication central to choro performance.

All instruments are welcome.

Prerequisites

• Rhythm section players: ability to read chord charts

• Melody players: ability to read standard notation

Sundays Noon–1:30 pm
9/27–12/6
No class 11/29
Performance: 12/12
Ricardo Peixoto, $475
(in-person)

Important Notes

• All ensembles culminate in a live, free performance.

• Please confirm you can attend the performance date before registering.

• A placement audition is required for new students.

How to Register

Please complete the online Ensemble Application Form below. Once we’ve received your application and, for new students, your audition recording, we’ll review your information and contact you to confirm placement. Once your placement is confirmed, we’ll send you a link to submit tuition payment. No payment is required until placement is confirmed.

Application form and audition guidelines:
Jazzschool Ensemble Application Form and Audition Guidelines

About Ricardo Peixoto

Born in Rio de Janeiro, guitarist, composer, and arranger Ricardo Peixoto came to the U.S. on a scholarship to Berklee College of Music and later settled in the San Francisco Bay Area. He graduated with a BM in Performance and studied with Pat Metheny, Gary Burton, and Mick Goodrick. After moving to the Bay Area, he studied classical guitar with George Sakellariou.

An inspired improviser with a keen compositional sense, Ricardo’s fluid melodic style draws from Brazil’s rich and diverse traditions while incorporating elements of jazz and classical guitar.

He has recorded, performed, and collaborated with artists including Claudia Villela, Flora Purim and Airto, Bud Shank, Dom Um Romão, Marcos Silva, Almir Côrtes, Rogério Souza, Terra Sul, and the Berkeley Choro Ensemble. He currently teaches and lectures at California Brazil Camp and Jazz Camp West and has taught at the Jazzschool for several years.