 Clay tablets found in Mesopotamia (ancient Iraq) mention 9 kinds of musical strings and 23 types of music and instruments.  The earliest instrument in existence from this period is the Gold Lyre of Ur, 2650 B.C.

 One of the oldest instruments in existence is a flute made of bear bone, dating from 4100 B.C.  The oldest instrument that can still be played is a flute made from crane bones that dates back to around 9000 B.C.

 Music was used in African and Native- American tribes to appeal to spirits for success in hunting, battle, and to honor ancestors.  Animism- animals and inanimate objects in nature have souls and spirits  Groups who have beliefs based on animism had music that imitate sounds in nature, (animal and bird calls, wind, running water, and weather sounds).

 Parts of The Book of The Dead are hymns that were performed for the Egyptian gods.  Ancient horns, harps, cymbals, and drums have all been discovered at burial sites.  Music played a part in festivals, religious rituals, and war rallies.  The Christian Coptic church, had many of their hymns influenced by early Egyptian hymns, these later influenced medieval chants.

 The five books of the Old Testament make up the Torah.  These were performed in chants by priests in rituals of sacrifice at the temple.  Kings David and Soloman wrote poetry that was accompanied by music (with harp or lyre).  This poetry makes up the books of Psalms and Song of Soloman  There are specific references to instruments in the Bible documenting their importance to praising God.