bass viol

[beys]

noun

1. viola da gamba.

2. double bass.

bass viol

/ beɪs /

noun

1. another name for viola da gamba

2. a less common name for double bass

bass viol

1. The largest and lowest-pitched instrument of the strings, also called a bass fiddle or double bass. The player must stand or sit on a tall stool to play it.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bass viol¹

First recorded in 1580–90

Example Sentences

The musicians give the accompaniment, a single basso continuo line, pleasing variety because of the various combinations of bass viol, harpsichord, organ, lute and theorbo.

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The first of them, the traditional Scottish “Regents Rant,” Savall dispatched — solo — with dazzling virtuosity on the bass viol.

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The weirdest and most wonderful comes in the seduction scene: a bass viol and a glass harmonica intertwine in a gently rasping glow, sparse yet achingly sensual, and the air crackles with tension.

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With the strident boom of the bass viol came the rank smell of the dog-fennel that hurrying feet had left bruised and wilting in the sun.

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In the Western gallery, three fiddles, two hautboys, and a bass viol squeaked and groaned with much fervour.

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