Music in Ancient Civilizations

Music is a powerful force that draws mankind from all hues together. All countries hum the tune of harmony ignoring racial and political boundaries. Thus it is that, music is a part and parcel of every human activity.

There are quite a few regions where music flourished thousands of years before the Christian era. Their references are found but in an isolated manner. I am happy to place before votaries of music Dr. Mallika Banerjee's book titled "Music in Ancient Civilizations" which presents a consolidated study of music in some regions of the world where civilization dawned. It is an endeavour to showcase the salient features of the music of some ancient civilizations e.g. Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, Greece and India in one volume. The author presents a comprehensive exposition of melodic aspects, rhythmic structures, musical instruments, aesthetic elements etc., based on authoritative works and iconographical evidences.

Visual representations, especially of musical instruments, are an added attraction as well as help to prove their authenticity.

It goes to Mallika's credit to have offered analyses of scales, musical instruments, ethos and rhythm, season and time of performance, of Mesopotamia, China, and Greece with a comparative approach, citing their Indian parallels.

Herself a performing classical vocalist of standing, her proficiency in the practical aspect has been an asset in undertaking this project-unique in its own way.

I hope "Music in Ancient Civilizations" by Dr. Mallika Banerjee will serve as a reference book for the students of advanced studies in music, while for individuals interested in music, it will make interesting reading.