Music of ancient Rome

Scena di commedia, musici ambulanti, da villa di cecerone a pompei, 9985, 03

Choregos actors MAN Napoli Inv9986

Roman sacrifice Louvre Ma992

Mosaique Zliten

Rilievo con corteo funebre, 20 ac-20 dc ca., da amiternum, 06 musici

Music of Ancient Rome refers to the music that was created and performed in Ancient Rome, spanning from the early Roman Republic through to the decline of the Roman Empire. Music in Ancient Rome was a vital part of Roman culture and was used in various aspects of daily life, including religious ceremonies, public festivals, private entertainment, and in the military. Despite the importance of music in Roman society, relatively little concrete information about the specifics of the music, such as its theory and composition, has survived to the present day.

History and Development

The history of Roman music is often divided into three periods: the Roman Republic (509-27 BC), the Roman Empire (27 BC - AD 476 in the West), and the late Empire period. During the Republic, music was primarily influenced by the Etruscans and the Greeks, with the Romans adopting many elements of Greek music theory and practice. In the Empire period, music became more elaborate and was used in a wider array of contexts, including the theatre, gladiatorial games, and Christian worship.

Instruments

Several musical instruments were used in Ancient Rome, many of which were adapted from other cultures. These included the lyre and kithara (stringed instruments), the aulos (a double-reed instrument), the tibia (a type of flute), and various types of percussion instruments. The cornu (a brass instrument), buccina (a horn), and the lituus (a long trumpet) were specifically used in the military for signaling.

Music in Society

Music played a significant role in Roman society. It was an integral part of religious festivals, such as the Saturnalia and the Ludi Romani, where it was used to worship the gods. Music also accompanied public spectacles, including chariot races, triumphs, and gladiator fights. In private settings, music was a form of entertainment at banquets and parties. The education of the Roman elite often included learning to play an instrument and to appreciate the art of music.

Genres and Forms

The Romans did not have a formal system of musical notation, and thus, the specific genres and forms of Roman music are largely unknown. However, it is believed that their music included both vocal and instrumental pieces, ranging from simple melodies to more complex compositions. Songs (carmen or carmina) were an important part of Roman music and could include both secular and sacred themes.

Legacy

Although the Western musical tradition is generally traced back to the Middle Ages, the music of Ancient Rome played a crucial role in the development of Western music theory and practice. The Roman adaptation and transmission of Greek musical theory, in particular, served as a foundation for later European musical developments.

See Also

• Music of ancient Greece
• Roman culture
• History of music