The five instruments commonly found in a Filipino rondalla are the bandurria, laud, octavina, guitarra, and bajo de uñas or double bass. The bandurria is usually the lead instrument in the ensemble, playing the main melodic line with a very fast tremolando using a plectrum, which gives the rondalla its characteristic sound. The octavina is an octave lower than the bandurria and serves as the alto in the ensemble or plays counter melodies. The laud carries the alto line of the music or plays counter melodies. The guitarra serves as the accompaniment, playing the chords of the music. The bajo de uñas or double bass gives the lower tones. The bandurria, laud, and octavina are unique to the Philippines.