Music in the Ancient Near East - Archaeological, Historical, and Societal Considerations

Music in the Ancient Near East brings together a series of innovative studies exploring musical practices across Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Levant, and beyond. Moving beyond general introductions, this volume presents a rich, interdisciplinary “melange” of archaeological finds, textual evidence, iconography, and experimental approaches to reconstruct the sounds, meanings, and social roles of music in antiquity.

Developed through an unusually collaborative and dialogic process, the contributions examine themes including gender, sexuality, disability, ritual, and cultural exchange. From travelling musicians and shared instrument traditions to new discoveries such as an Iron Age bone whistle, the volume highlights the interconnected musical landscape of the ancient Near East and the dynamic role of music in everyday and sacred life.