The sounds created from the very early musical instruments instantly made an impression on mankind. It makes sense that music was introduced into other facets of their lifestyles, such as ceremonies, entertainment, or even just to listen to whilst cultures went to work; pretty much just like music is still played today!

The belief that harmony within music was not introduced until the Middle Ages was proven incorrect after a 1950's archeological dig in Syria. A set of clay tablets written in the ancient Hurrian language were found, estimated to date as far back as 1400 BC. They were inscribed with detailed instructions, for a singer and a harpist to perform a ritual hymn to their Moon God, Nikal. They also showed instructions for tuning the harp.

The ancient music of China seems to coincide with the beginning of their civilization. Artifacts and records found tell us that they were extremely organized in the development of their musical culture, as far back as the Zhou Dynasty in 1122 BC. Ancient records show descriptions of string and wind instruments, along with bells, drums, and chimes. Early music later evolved amongst the Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Asian, Greek, and Roman cultures, as well as within the Jewish and Muslim religious practices. Ancient Hebrews used music for religious celebrations. Wind, string, and percussion instruments were used to accompany vocal singing to ceremonial psalms. Over time, a ram's horn was adapted to be used as a trumpet in Jewish ceremonies, which is still used today.

Ancient Greek history tells us that music was a part of their ancient theatre performances. They used string instruments such as the lyre, and wind instruments such as double pipes and ancient bagpipes. Artifacts found show that their music was detailed in matters of technique, as well as in the performance of harmony. Their music came to be held in the highest of esteem, as a source of intellectual and artistic inspiration. The Greek philosophers also understood music to have certain psychological and supernatural influences, as different types of music played affected different responses in human behavior. The ancient Greeks also believed their music to be of cosmic influence, that it could affect the movement of the heavenly bodies within the cosmos.