Final Answer:
Stride bass is a piano technique where the left hand alternates between playing low bass notes and middle-register chords. Option D is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
This technique emerged in early jazz and ragtime music, showcasing a pianist's ability to cover both melody and harmony simultaneously. The left hand "strides" between the lower octaves for the bass notes and the middle register for the chords, creating a rich and rhythmic sound.
Stride bass demands dexterity and independence in the left hand, as it maintains a steady rhythm with the bass while incorporating varied chord voicings in the upper structure. Pioneered by musicians like Fats Waller and James P. Johnson, this technique often involves a jumping motion across the keys to maintain the bass-chord alternation.
It's a dynamic and challenging technique, requiring mastery of syncopation, hand independence, and a good sense of rhythm. While initially associated with early jazz styles, its influence can be heard across various genres due to its rhythmic complexity and rich harmonic texture.
The correct answer is D. Stride bass.
Complete question:
What is the name for a piano technique where the left hand alternates between bass notes and middle-register chords?
- A. Arpeggio
- B. Legato
- C. Tremolo
- D. Stride bass