Ground bass is a musical technique where a repeating bass line serves as the foundation for a composition. This bass line is often accompanied by varying melodies and harmonies above it, creating a rich texture. Ground bass is commonly found in Baroque music, where composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Henry Purcell utilized this method to build intricate pieces. The structure of ground bass typically involves a short, recognizable melody that repeats throughout the piece. This allows composers to explore different musical ideas while maintaining a cohesive sound. Ground bass can be seen in various forms, including chaconne and passacaglia, both of which emphasize the repeating bass line.