Egypt's Great Musical Society

Egypt was long thought to have no music whatsoever. Interesting that when there is a lack of physical evidence, that archeologists, scientists, and many others could draw such a conclusion. One must ask, how can any civilization as grand as the ancient Egyptians be completely devoid of a musical culture?

This would change with the discoveries of ancient harps in the pharaoh's tombs of Thebes by James Bruce in the 18th century. The splendor of the ancient musical world of Egypt began to unravel. In the Old Kingdom, we find a variety of soft sounding instruments; harps, vertical flutes, double reed pipes. This provides insight into the musical background of the Old Kingdom, which existed from 3000 BC to 1580 BC. Music was an art reserved for the upper classes. As Asian instruments were imported into Egypt, the elite classes attempted to preserve the older styles and older instruments. Percussion instruments began to play a strong part in the ancient's life. Music at the end of the old Kingdom became progressively louder as new instruments and percussion became part of every day Egyptian life. Music was no longer an art of the elite classes.

The New Kingdom saw a strong influence from eastern instruments. Instruments were far louder
with eastern shawms and trumpets now playing a pivotal role. These instruments originated in China.

Music and songs became a favorite object a strong part of Egyptian life. Music was used for educating young people as well as in public and private ceremonies. It was also used in prayers and funerals.

Some scholars believe that Egyptians even had a form of notation. Various stellas have been found which depict a group of musicians with what appears to be a person giving had signal to communicate to the musicians which notes should be played.

We will never know the extent of this great civilization's musical life, but it appears to rival even our modern day civilization. It is amazing that after a breakthrough in archeology, Egypt went from a society with no music to a musically great society.

Two sistrums, rhythmical music instruments which made sound when shaking them.

Sistrums are found in many Egyptian relief's, and often in connection with the goddess Hathor