Basso Continuo is a musical practice used primarily in the Baroque period, where a continuous bass line is played alongside harmonies. This bass line is typically performed by instruments like the cello or bassoon, while a keyboard instrument, such as the harpsichord or organ, fills in the chords above it. The term translates to "continuous bass," and it provides a foundation for the melody and harmonies above. Composers would often write out the bass line, leaving performers to improvise the chords, allowing for a blend of structure and creativity in the music.