Final answer:
Bass instruments were indeed commonly used in medieval music, especially for outdoor occasions during the Middle Ages, contributing to the rich soundscape of public and religious events.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bass instruments were indeed used in medieval music, particularly for outdoor occasions during the Middle Ages. This is true since instruments like shawms and sackbuts, which are predecessors to modern bass instruments, were commonly used in these settings. Medieval music for outdoor events needed to be loud and carry over distance, which made such instruments ideal. Alongside other instruments like the flute, recorder, and gemshorn, medieval music created a robust soundscape that enhanced various outdoor events, from public festivities to religious celebrations.
The fact that instruments adapted for outdoor use were prevalent can also be seen in the context of Pageant Wagons, which were mobile stages that supported theatrical performances—indicative of how music was incorporated into public life. Moreover, examples like the Cantigas de Santa Maria manuscript illustrate the use of plucked string instruments like the lute and psaltery, suggesting a rich tradition of instrumental music during this period.