Bass, or BASE, in Music, is the deepest or lowest part, by whatever instrument it may be performed. Next to the upper part the bass is the most striking, the freest in its movements, and richest in effect. In respect to harmony, the bass is the most important part in music, containing more frequently the fundamental notes of the chords, while on it is formed that most important and effective figure in music called 'organ-point.'—Bass is also applied to the lowest and deepest male voice. The compass of a bass voice is generally from F below the bass clef to D above it, which should all be chest-notes, except, perhaps, the highest. Exceptionally deep voices are found in Russia, descending to C below the bass clef, and even further. The bass voice begins to show itself only at the years of manhood, and is generally a change from the alto voice of a boy. It is much more largely used as a solo voice, especially in opera, since Mozart gave it prominence.—Bass or Bass Viol is also the name of an old stringed instrument, with from five to six strings, tuned variously to suit the music, and played with a bow. It was a sort of middle instrument between the contra-bass and violoncello, but is now out of use. Double bass (q.v.) is the deepest-toned of stringed instruments. See also VIOL. For the method of harmonising known as Figured Bass, see the article in this work on ACCOMPANIMENT, also those on COUNTERPOINT, HARMONY, MUSIC, ORCHESTRA, VOICE.
Bass, THE. See BASS ROCK.