baslijn

Baslijn, in Dutch, refers primarily to the bass line in music: the lowest melodic line that outlines the harmonic foundation and helps establish the groove. It is typically performed by bass instruments such as the double bass, bass guitar, or synthesizer, and can also be realized by keyboard or reed instruments in certain contexts.

In classical Western music, the baslijn often forms part of the basso continuo or serves as the foundation of a composition's harmony. The performer or ensemble realizes the bass line together with figured bass notation, which indicates chords and intervals to be supplied above the bass. Over time, the baslijn became more explicitly written in the bass staff, guiding performers and shaping the overall harmonic structure.

In other genres, the baslijn plays a central role in defining style and rhythm. In jazz, walking bass lines move stepwise or with arpeggios to connect chord tones and maintain coherence through changes. In funk, rock, and pop, bass lines frequently emphasize the root notes and use syncopation to interact with drums and harmony. In electronic and hip-hop music, the bass line is often synthesized and designed to deliver a strong, sustained low-end presence that drives the track.

Notation and realization: the baslijn is usually written in the bass clef or implied by a fretted instrument, with performers interpreting rhythm, articulation, and phrasing. In more formal settings, a notated bass line accompanies chord symbols or is embedded within a larger score.

Baslijn is distinct from the term baseline used in other fields (such as research or sports), where different meanings apply.