Thorough Bass (Noun)
Meaning
A bass part written out in full and accompanied by numbers to indicate the chords to be played.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The original score included a thoroughbass part that provided guidance to the accompanist on how to construct the chords.
- Composers of the Baroque period relied heavily on thoroughbass to convey the harmonic structure of their music to performers.
- To enhance authenticity, the ensemble performed the concerto with a harpsichordist who improvised the thoroughbass part.
- The notation system used in early music includes a thoroughbass line at the bottom of the staff that outlines the chords to be played.
- Historical performances often featured an instrument such as the cello or violone to play the thoroughbass part, providing the harmonic foundation of the ensemble.