The Evolution of Music: Exploring Fossil Evidence and Early Musical Instruments

Undoubtedly, music is one of the most profound manifestations of human culture. Its origins, however, have long been shrouded in mystery. In this article, we explore the oldest evidence of music and musical instruments in ancient history, from the 42,000-year-old bone flutes in Germany to the Neanderthals and early human ancestors. Drawing from the extensive work of Professor Steve Mithen in his book “The Singing Neanderthals,” we delve into the science behind music and its relationship with speech.

Early Human Capabilities and the 42,000-Year-Old Bone Flutes

One of the most compelling pieces of evidence for the early development of music is the discovery of 42,000-year-old bone flutes in Germany. These flutes, crafted from bird bones and mammoth ivory, are estimated to be the oldest known musical instruments. The discovery suggests that even our ancient ancestors had the capacity to create and potentially play these instruments. As Homo sapiens, we might have had the ability to fashion and utilize these tools, although we can only speculate about their use and the level of musical proficiency they possessed.

The Academic Perspective: Steve Mithen's "The Singing Neanderthals"

Professor Steve Mithen, a renowned expert on early prehistory, provides a comprehensive exploration of this topic in his book "The Singing Neanderthals." This book, published at the University of Reading in the UK, delves into the nature of music and its connection to speech and symbolic thought. Mithen’s work meticulously examines various aspects, including the neurological basis for processing music compared to speech, the development of music in children, and the evolution of communication among early humans and their primate relatives.

The Development of Music and Communication

Mithen suggests that music developed before speech, and the capacity for expressing mood and emotion predates the emergence of language. This controversial idea integrates the neurology of music and speech, providing an intriguing framework for understanding human evolution. Mithen explores the fossil record to identify traits related to music that might be present in our ancestors. A significant section of the book discusses the implications of bipedalism on vocal control, noting that the shift to walking on two legs freed up the larynx, allowing for greater control over vocalization.

Signs from Fossil Bones and Bird Bones

The fossil record provides valuable insights into the vocal capabilities of early humans and Neanderthals. Fossil bones show evidence of the size and complexity of nerve bundles controlling respiration, the tongue, and the larynx, suggesting that our ancestors had the necessary vocal control for creating music. This control is far more sophisticated than what is required for speech, indicating a more profound and nuanced communication system.

Neanderthal Musical Instruments and Their Implications

One of the most fascinating pieces of evidence is the discovery of Neanderthals playing musical instruments, such as bone flutes and pipes. A notable instance is the bone flute found in Divje in 1996, a Neanderthal site. Even though experts are divided on whether it was truly a flute, its apparent design suggests its function as a musical instrument. Since then, 20 Neanderthal flutes or pipes dating back 35,000 years have been discovered in the Isturitz cave. These flutes, made from wing bones of large birds and vultures, are meticulously crafted tools indicating a structured and deliberate approach to music. The consistent spacing between the finger holes suggests the use of a musical scale, far beyond mere random notes.

The Role of Music in Early Human Culture

Music was not only a means of communication but also a tool for sexual selection, family development, and social bonding. Mithen discusses how birdsong mimicry played a significant role in these early human practices. The sound of flutes, pipes ringing stalactites, and even early forms of xylophones or lithophones, created a mesmerizing auditory experience in the reverberant caves, accompanied by firelight and shadows of dancers.

These discoveries and insights highlight the profound significance of music in human history. From simple bone flutes to Neanderthal pipes, the evidence points to a rich and profound connection between our earliest ancestors and the musical arts. As we continue to uncover more about our past, the story of music's evolution becomes more captivating and enlightening.