figured bass

Figured bass is a musical notation system used during the Baroque period. It involves a bass line written out in standard notation, accompanied by numbers and symbols that indicate harmonies to be played above it. The numbers represent intervals above the bass note, guiding musicians—particularly keyboard players—on which chords or sounds to create. Essentially, it serves as a shorthand for harmonic structure, allowing composers to specify how they want their music to be accompanied while giving performers some freedom in interpretation. This practice highlights the collaboration between composers and musicians in crafting music.