Bass techniques refer to the various methods and styles used by bass players to produce sound and enhance their musical performance. Common techniques include fingerstyle, where players pluck the strings with their fingers, and slap bass, which involves striking the strings with the thumb and popping them with the fingers for a percussive effect. Other techniques include tapping, where players use their fingers to tap the strings on the fretboard, and palm muting, which dampens the strings to create a muted sound. Mastering these techniques allows bassists to add depth and rhythm to their music, making them essential for various genres.