Lines and spaces of the bass clef

Definition

Music is written on a series of five lines and four spaces known as the stave. These lines and spaces have no value or pitch of their own until a clef is placed on them. The lines and spaces are then assigned pitches according to the clef used.

In bass clef, the lines are assigned G, B, D, F and A (in ascending order) and the spaces are assigned A, C, E and G (in ascending order). You can see that when combined the pitches move up or down the stave by step.

Examples

Bass clef and notes on the lines (G, B, D, F and A)

Bass clef and notes in the spaces (A, C, E and G)

Bass clef and notes in ascending order from low E to middle C

Related concepts

• Lines and spaces of the treble clef (N3)