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Alberti bass is a piano accompaniment pattern in which the notes of a chord are played in a repeated sequence instead of all at once. The most common pattern is lowest – highest – middle – highest.
What is Alberti bass?
Alberti bass is named after the Italian composer Domenico Alberti. Rather than playing block chords, the notes are broken into a repeating pattern that creates a smooth, flowing accompaniment while clearly outlining the harmony.
The pattern is most often played with the left hand and became especially popular during the Classical period in the music of composers such as Mozart and Haydn.
How is Alberti bass used in piano playing?
Although Alberti bass is closely associated with classical piano music, the same accompaniment idea is still used in many modern piano styles, including ballads and beginner arrangements.
Practicing Alberti bass helps develop left-hand independence, steady rhythm and smooth accompaniment. It is also an excellent introduction to broken chord patterns that support a melody without overpowering it.