Who Invented Music ?
Music, as a form of artistic expression, has no single inventor. Instead, it evolved spontaneously from early humans’ social behaviours and cultural advances.
Natural sounds, such as the rhythm of raindrops, bird calls, or the sound of wind, are most likely the source of the oldest forms of music. Early humans may have imitated these noises to communicate with one another, convey emotions, or interact with their surroundings. Rhythmic patterns such as clapping, stomping, and drumming are probable early forms of music, with the voice being one of the first musical instruments utilised by humans.
Archaeologists have discovered ancient flutes carved from bones and tusks that date back over 40,000 years, providing evidence of early music-making. These instruments were discovered in modern-day Germany, implying that early humans, such as the Cro-Magnons, composed melodies with basic tools. The finding of ancient rock art and sculptures lends credence to the theory that music was inextricably linked with ritual, spiritual rituals, and storytelling.
Across societies, music evolved in numerous ways. Ancient civilisations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China formalised and incorporated music into religious ceremonies, social gatherings, and governance. For example, in ancient Greece was seen as a holy art, inextricably related to poetry and drama. The lyre, aulos, and kithara were important musical instruments in Greek society. complex scales and philosophies, linking song to cosmic order and spirituality.
African drumming traditions, rich in rhythm and improvisation. Linking song to cosmic order and spirituality.
Though we cannot pinpoint a single “inventor” of it. It is clear that song was born out of the innate human desire to create, communicate, and connect. Each culture across the globe contributed to the development of song in unique ways. It remains a fundamental part of human life. A testament to the creativity and ingenuity of early societies.
