Definition

1. Noun:
   • A bass part written out in full and accompanied by numbers to indicate the chords to be played: In music, especially Baroque music, the "continuo" is the continuous bass line, typically played by a keyboard instrument (like a harpsichord or organ) and a bass instrument (like a cello or bassoon). The performer realizes the harmony based on the written bass notes and the accompanying numerical figures (figured bass).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The harpsichordist and cellist formed the continuo section for the Baroque ensemble.
  • The composer's manuscript included a detailed continuo part with elaborate figured bass.
  • A good understanding of harmony is essential for realizing the continuo from the figured bass notation.

Advanced Usage

• "Basso continuo": This is the full Italian term from which "continuo" is derived. It is often used interchangeably with "continuo" to refer to the same musical concept.
  • The piece is scored for solo violin and basso continuo.

Variants and Related Words

• Figured bass (n): The system of musical notation used with the continuo part, where numbers below the bass line indicate the intervals above the bass note that should be played to form chords.

  • The student practiced reading figured bass to improve her continuo playing.

• Thoroughbass (n): Another historical term synonymous with "basso continuo" or "continuo."

  • The treatise explained the rules of thoroughbass.

Synonyms

• Basso continuo: The full Italian term.
• Thoroughbass: An alternative historical term.
• Figured bass: Specifically refers to the notational system, but is closely associated.

Related Phrases

(Note: As a specific musical term, "continuo" does not commonly form phrasal verbs or idioms in general English. Its usage is primarily technical within the domain of music.)

Noun

1. a bass part written out in full and accompanied by numbers to indicate the chords to be played