An Alberti bass in music typically features what kind of figure?

An Alberti bass is a specific type of accompaniment used in classical music, characterized by its distinctive pattern. It consists of arpeggiated triads, which means that the notes of a chord are played in succession rather than simultaneously. Typically, this includes the lowest note of the chord, followed by the highest, then the middle note, and returns to the lowest, creating a continuous, flowing texture.

The three-pitch chord choice effectively represents this idea, as an Alberti bass usually anchors around a triad, employing three different pitches to create that arpeggiated effect. This provides a harmonic foundation while allowing the melody to be more prominent, which is why it aligns perfectly with the definition and function of an Alberti bass in compositions.