continuo

[ kuhn-tin-yoo-oh ]

noun

, Music.

, plural con·tin·u·os.

1. a keyboard accompanying part consisting originally of a figured bass, which in modern scores is usually realized, and serving to provide or fill out the harmonic texture.

continuo

/ kənˈtɪnjʊˌəʊ /

noun

1. music
   1. a shortened form of basso continuo See thorough bass
   2. ( as modifier )

      a continuo accompaniment

2. the thorough-bass part as played on a keyboard instrument, often supported by a cello, bassoon, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of continuo¹

1715–25; < Italian: literally, continuous

Word History and Origins

Origin of continuo¹

Italian, literally: continuous

Example Sentences

The honeyed tone of the small complement of continuo instruments as the competing mothers approached Solomon was just one example of the care taken with details.

From New York Times

He also learned the organ and the harpsichord so he could play continuo.

From New York Times

There’s elasticity in the way the ensemble’s sound expands and contracts, reacting to fluctuations in the intensity of the characters’ feelings and enlivening music built predominantly from strings and continuo.

From New York Times

Even with a jazz quartet in the pit alongside the orchestra — Blanchard’s answer to a Baroque continuo — there’s little classic swing in the mix.

From New York Times

Scored for five voices, five unspecified instrumental parts and basso continuo, the music is reverent and wistful.

From New York Times