bass clef
The F clef, placing the note F on the fourth line of the staff, used for lower-pitched instruments and voices.
In Depth
The bass clef symbol is an ornate letter F — the two dots pinch the fourth line, which is the note F. The treble clef is a G, and the alto clef is a C — each clef is literally a letter.
Related Terms
More in Theory
Browse allA sharp, flat, or natural sign that alters a note from the prevailing key signature.
Symbols placed before notes to raise or lower their pitch by a semitone or return them to their natural state
Relating to sound or the properties of sound, especially music produced without electronic amplification.
The natural minor scale, with the pattern W-H-W-W-H-W-W, producing the most common minor tonality in Western music.
Music in which some element of the composition is left to chance or to the performer's discretion.
The second-highest voice type, or an instrument pitched between soprano and tenor.
The measure of a sound wave's intensity, perceived as loudness or volume.
One or more notes before the first full bar of a piece, also called a pickup or upbeat.