This was certainly true in JS Bach’s lifetime and ... Höchster, schau in Gnaden an Carolyn Sampson, soprano; Sebastian Noack, bass; Collegium Vocale Gent, directed by Philippe Herreweghe ...
Listen to this effect in J.S. Bach's 'Badinerie' from Suite No. 2 ... You will hear the cello play a ground bass, a repeated bass line which creates a sad mood for the whole song.