What does the term 'basso continuo' refer to?

The term 'basso continuo' refers specifically to an improvised harmonic accompaniment that was commonly used during the Baroque period of music. This practice involves a bass line, typically played by instruments such as the cello or bassoon, along with a keyboard instrument like a harpsichord or organ. The keyboard player would read the bass line and realize the chords indicated, often using figured bass notation. This method allowed for creativity and spontaneity in performance, as musicians would interpret the harmonic structure in real time, filling in chords and other harmonic textures.

Understanding the significance of basso continuo is essential for grasping the development of Western classical music, as it laid the groundwork for harmonic practices that would influence composers in the centuries that followed. In contrast, the other choices refer to different musical concepts: a soloist with accompaniment describes a more structured form of performance without the improvisational aspect of basso continuo, orchestrated symphonic pieces pertain to larger ensemble works usually from later periods, and traditional choir arrangements focus specifically on vocal music without the improvisational framework of continuo.