In basso continuo, the written bass line becomes living harmony through the performers’ knowledge, listening, and creative judgment. The term in brief Basso continuo Italian: basso continuo Also known as Continuo; closely associated with figured bass and the broader thoroughbass tradition. Principal period From the late sixteenth through the eighteenth century, with considerable variation by region and genre. Basic function A written bass line above which performers construct the harmonic accompaniment. Notation Figured, partially figured, or entirely unfigured bass. Typical instruments Harpsichord, organ, theorbo, lute, or harp, often joined by cello, viola da gamba, violone, or bassoon. ...