Hear the World's Oldest Instrument, the "Neanderthal Flute," Dating Back Over 43,000 Years

The world’s oldest known song, the Hurrian Cult Song, dates back to the 14th century B.C.E. and was likely performed on an ancient lyre-like instrument. While modern musicologists can discern some characteristics, complete understanding of its tempo and rhythm eludes them. Further back in time, the existence of prehistoric music is suggested but poorly documented. However, archaeological finds in Germany unveiled flutes made from vulture and mammoth bones, dating 42,000 to 43,000 years old, indicating that music played a significant role in the lives of early humans.

The flutes discovered in southern Germany, carved from vulture and mammoth bones, are among the oldest musical instruments, dating back 42,000 to 43,000 years.

Researchers speculate that the intricate craftsmanship of the mammoth bone flute highlights the cultural accomplishments of early European modern humans.

Read at Open Culture