Continuos

/kənˈtɪn.u.oʊz/ noun

Definition

Plural of continuo; multiple instances or variations of the continuous bass accompaniment in baroque composition.

Etymology

Italian plural of 'continuo.' The word retains its Italian form even in English musical terminology, showing how music preserves the language of its birthplace.

Kelly Says

Different composers wrote continuo parts with wildly different personalities—some sparse and geometric, others ornate and showy—turning an accompaniment technique into an art form itself.

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